Solid Waste Management in the Hohoe Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

Background: The rapid increase in urban population due to the invasion of the citizenry in search of better livelihood has resulted in poor environmental conditions in most urban and sub-urban settlements in Ghana. Urban waste has become an inevitable canker to behold, which is evident from the garbage that is spilling uncontrollably into the streets causing inconvenience, environmental pollution, and posing a public health risk. The Population and Housing Census (2010) of Ghana Statistical Service reported that out of the 28% of solid waste generated in urban areas of the Hohoe Municipality only 5.7% is collected. The main objective of the study was to assess the household solid waste management in Hohoe Township. 

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was undertaken using a structured questionnaire. The WHO EPI 30 cluster sampling technique was modified into 20 cluster sampling technique. Data was collected from all the 20 clusters in Hohoe municipality with each cluster being comprised 10 households. 

Results: The study revealed a high dependence on communal waste containers as the method for waste disposal. Waste sorting was poorly practised and landfills were poorly managed in the study area. 

Conclusions: There are inadequate waste containers and skips for the collection of waste and interestingly travelling distance to dumping site is a major reason for the indiscriminate dumping of the waste.