| dc.description.abstract | This study examined the effect of waste management practices on environmental sustainability and
natural resources along the River Rwizi in Mbarara City. Specifically, it assessed the current status
of waste practices, challenges faced by authorities and communities, and strategies for
improvement.
A convergent parallel mixed-method design was adopted, integrating both qualitative and
quantitative approaches. A total of 430 respondents were selected from a target population of 2,340
using stratified and systematic sampling, including 327 community members from Rwemigina and
103 from Mbarara Central Market. Key informants such as the city mayor, council clerk,
environmental health officer, physical planner, and health inspector were purposively and snowball
sampled. Data collection employed questionnaires for quantitative data and structured interview
guides for qualitative insights. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential
statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically summarized.
Findings revealed plastics (43.3%) and organic waste (39.6%) as the most common waste types,
with municipal collection (24.7%) and open dumping (23.5%) as the dominant disposal methods.
Only 32.7% of respondents were aware of waste segregation, indicating a major knowledge gap.
Poor practices contributed to environmental degradation, contamination of the River Rwizi,
waterborne diseases, reduced agricultural productivity, and loss of aquatic life. Challenges included
inadequate funding, limited infrastructure, weak enforcement, and low community responsibility.
The study concludes that Mbarara City lacks an integrated and coordinated waste management
framework, with gaps between policy and practice. It recommends increased budget allocation,
stronger enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and the protection of the River Rwizi catchment
zones through afforestation, drainage improvement, and strict anti-dumping laws. These measures
would enhance sustainable waste management and safeguard natural resources. | en_US |
