Phanuel Chuka Hakwendenda, Abiness Manjola, Godfrey Mutale
This study examined the relationship between waste-management practices and adaptive sanitation strategies, focusing on existing household waste-disposal methods, awareness levels, and the community’s role in enhancing public and environmental health and sustainability. Using Mumbwa Urban as a place-specific case study, the paper explored the connections between these practices and broader public-health and environmental-sustainability concerns to provide evidence-based recommendations for improvement. A mixed-methods research design combining quantitative and qualitative techniques was employed. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS version 20, while qualitative data from key informants were examined using thematic analysis. A multi-stage sampling approach was used to ensure representative and reliable data collection. Cochran's formula was applied to determine the appropriate sample size from the finite population. Using a 95% confidence level, a 5% margin of error, and expected variability (p = 0.5), the calculated sample size was 382 households. The findings showed that, although awareness of waste-collection points was comparatively high, irregular collection, limited waste separation, and low community engagement remained significant challenges. Burning and burying were identified as the dominant waste-disposal methods used by residents, partly because the municipal council was unable to provide all required essential services. The findings also highlighted health risks, air pollution, soil and water pollution, and declining neighbourhood cleanliness as the most significant public- and environmental-health impacts of ineffective waste-management systems. The study identified several adaptive sanitation strategies to enhance public health and environmental sustainability, including community clean-up initiatives, public sensitisation, and collaboration between residents and the municipal council. It underscores the need for integrated solid waste management (ISWM) systems, community-based waste-management practices, and interventions that improve long-term sanitation outcomes.