Community Engagement in Solid Waste Management: An In-Depth Analysis of Household Participation and Practices in Chelstone Township in Lusaka, Zambia

The study investigated the efficacy of community engagement in solid waste management in Chelstone Township, with a focus on household involvement and participation. Understanding the extent of community participation in solid waste management is critical for improving waste management systems and developing sustainable practices in local communities. Chelstone Township, Lusaka Province, Zambia, presented an attractive backdrop for investigating community engagement in solid waste management due to its unique blend of social, economic, cultural, and political elements. Chelstone’s population is diversified, with a mix of indigenous residents and migrants from other regions of Zambia, living in both informal settlements and more affluent residential neighborhoods. To examine the level of community engagement in solid waste management in Chelstone Township, the researchers used a mixed-method approach that included both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The study found that community involvement in solid waste management was only partially effective, owing to a lack of household participation in decision-making procedures. According to the findings, community engagement in solid waste management was predominantly routed through councilors, resulting in insufficient representation of households in planning and decision-making. Community-based enterprises (CBEs) also demonstrated a lack of household engagement. The study identified obstacles such as waste politicization, a lack of information, distance collection places, unreliable collection services, and issues with openness and accountability in cash allocation. The outcomes of the study highlight the importance of increased education efforts to encourage community participation in garbage management. To supplement local government initiatives, effective engagement of stakeholders such as community organizations, NGOs, and commercial sector entities is advised. The study recommends incorporating community people in solid waste management planning, decision-making, and implementation.