Problems and Possible Solutions to Municipal Solid Waste Management in Malawi Urban Areas – An Overview
Abdulmajeed Allan Chikukula
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) Named after Patrice Lumumba, Russia.
Godspower Oke Omokaro *
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) Named after Patrice Lumumba, Russia.
Osayogie Osazemen Godswill
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) Named after Patrice Lumumba, Russia.
Saeed Yasser Cassim
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Malawi.
Hazel Samartha Mabangwe
University of Eastern Africa, Baraton- Malawi Adventist University, Malawi.
Idrissah Kaisi
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Malawi.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Municipal solid waste (MSW) management poses significant challenges in urban areas of Malawi, with rapid population growth, poor sanitary conditions, and inadequate waste disposal infrastructure exacerbating the situation. This overview synthesizes existing literature to examine the complexities of MSW management in key Malawian cities, including Mzuzu, Blantyre, Zomba, and Lilongwe. Drawing from diverse sources such as peer-reviewed papers, governmental reports, and policy documents, the study investigates the root causes of MSW problems and explores potential remedies. Key issues identified include poor waste disposal habits, lack of waste classification, insufficient waste removal services, and community perceptions towards waste disposal. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the legal frameworks and environmental regulations governing MSW management in Malawi, highlighting the roles of various stakeholders and policy instruments. To address these challenges, the paper proposes a multi-faceted approach involving enforcement of legal laws, civic education and awareness campaigns, community engagement, involvement of private operators, conversion of waste to energy, promotion of recycling activities, composting, and provision of public bins/trash containers. By implementing these strategies, Malawi can move towards sustainable MSW management, mitigate environmental risks, and improve public health outcomes in urban areas.
Keywords: Municipal solid waste, Malawi urban areas, waste disposal, environmental regulations, waste management strategies
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References
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