INVESTIGATING THE OBSTACLES ENCOUNTERED BY THE SOLID WASTE INDUSTRY IN DOUALA, CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Cameroon, like other developing nations, is currently undergoing a significant increase in the production of municipal solid garbage. This is mostly due to the rapid, unplanned, and mismanaged urbanisation, as well as the growing urban population and increased economic activity in the country (Guerrero et al., 2018). Cameroon produces almost 6 million tonnes of urban solid garbage per year, posing a severe threat to the environment and human health (Palouma, 2019). Local towns are unable to cope with the high rate of waste generation because they lack sufficient financial resources, organisational capability, and technical skills (Sujauddin et al., 2018). Thus far, there has been limited focus on comprehensively comprehending the entire solid waste cycle (Browne, 2023). In addition to this, there is a belief that solid waste management is primarily concerned with removing and disposing of garbage, which has led to the implementation of unsuitable and overly complex solutions (Chang et al., 2017). Cameroon has transitioned from a completely formal private sector model to a public-private partnership one in order to handle solid waste management.

The rise in municipal solid waste in developing nations can be linked to factors such as population growth, fast urbanisation, improved earnings, and inadequate urban town planning (Ming et al., 2019). The issue of solid waste is exacerbated when cities lack enough services, have inadequate infrastructure, and possess deficient road networks (Melara et al., 2023). Internationally, there is a shift towards moving away from simply disposing of solid trash and instead focussing on resource recovery and/or incineration for energy generation. However, developing nations face limitations in adopting these choices due to the fact that around 55% of their solid waste consists of organic material (Mihelcic, 2019). Moreover, numerous developing nations face challenges in terms of financial resources, expertise, administrative structures, and infrastructure necessary for effective management of solid waste disposal (Zurbrügg et al., 2017). Additional obstacles encompass the dynamic nature of government policies and regulations, inadequate waste categorisation impeding waste separation, insufficient public knowledge regarding effective solid waste management practices, a restricted market for recycled materials, and a scarcity of available land for solid waste facilities (Mihelcic, 2019). Therefore, it is advisable to adopt an inclusive and collaborative approach that involves various stakeholders in the creation of a comprehensive framework for managing solid waste. This framework should address both the tangible aspects such as waste collection, sorting, and recycling, as well as the intangible aspects related to governance, including stakeholders, financial mechanisms, legislation, policies, and involvement of non-governmental organisations and community-based organisations. The sources cited are Wilson (2020) and Zurbrügg et al. (2017).

Effective solid waste management necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes the participation of all parties involved (Scheinberg, 2020). The stakeholders involved in this context encompass planning agencies, environmental regulators, legislators, sector agencies, residents, NGOs, the formal and informal private sector, agents of mass communication, and technical/scientific communities (Joseph, 2023). Regrettably, not all of these stakeholders perceive themselves as having a duty to fulfil. Communities commonly perceive solid waste management as exclusively the responsibility of the government, and politicians frequently prioritise other matters (Alavi et al., 2019). The issue is in the conventional method of handling solid waste, which is characterised by a centralised, uniform, bureaucratic, capital-intensive, and formalised approach (Maino, 2020). Although several poor nations, like Uganda, have made efforts to implement a decentralised model, they were unable to fully reap the advantages due to limitations in institutions, infrastructure, and legislation (Van Vliet, 2020). In their study, Ahmed & Ali (2018) discovered that the disagreement between local and national government about the legislative structure and financial allocation for managing a decentralised model impeded its implementation. Therefore, they believe that public-private partnerships (PPPs) offer the most effective approach to include stakeholders in this matter. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are experiencing an upward trend (Thamba, 2021).

In Cameroon, both public and commercial operators, as well as local NGOs and CBOs, face comparable difficulties in terms of money, institutional structure, and technology issues, which aligns with the circumstances in other developing countries (Mosler et al., 2017; Henry et al., 2019). A comprehensive understanding and meticulous strategising are needed for the efficient administration of municipal solid waste (MSW). African developers must tackle the efficient functioning of governmental services and the persistent existence of an informal sector, which cannot be ignored. However, the government is increasingly including rubbish collection into urban planning. Moreover, there is presently dedicated financing expressly given to urban planning and effective governance for urban development. This funding is provided through the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) program, which is implemented by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (Martin, 2019).

Bastian (2022) proposes four elements that can aid in reducing household trash generation: The four key factors are: (a) Financial incentives; (b) Educational levels; (c) Awareness through communication; and (d) Operational considerations. Financial incentives are necessary to motivate trash separation at the source, as household economics impact the ability to afford waste collection and disposal (Troschinetz, 2019). Nevertheless, Steve et al. (2018) caution that financial incentives may not be feasible for financially constrained local authorities. Monetary incentives can also drive individuals to engage in short-term actions, and once the incentives cease, previous behaviours resurface. In their study conducted in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Sujauddin et al. (2018) discovered that larger families and homes with higher levels of education tend to produce a greater amount of waste. Illegal garbage dumping in Accra, Ghana, was shown to be associated with a lack of awareness, as reported by Oteng-Ababio et al. (2023). In order to alter the views, motives, knowledge, and behaviours of families, marketing and communication play a crucial role (Thomas, 2021). Consistent and high-quality communication is essential, yet there are proponents who suggest that authorities ought to engage in widespread environmental education (Evison et al., 2021). The lack of resources and facilities, including inadequate collection systems, inefficient routing, insufficient infrastructure, poor roads, and a limited number of collection vehicles, hampers the separation of household garbage (David et al., 2019). Illegal dumping happens when there are no adequate roads connecting households to central collection stations, or when there is a lack of disposal bins and/or a significant distance between disposal points (Mane et al., 2023).

Douala, the primary economic hub of Cameroon, confronts substantial obstacles in effectively handling its solid waste as a result of growing urbanisation, population expansion, and industrial development. The urban area's growth has led to a significant surge in the volume of solid garbage produced by families, businesses, and industries (Thwale, 2021). The solid waste management system in Douala faces challenges in meeting the increasing demand, despite the efforts of municipal authorities and private firms. This situation has resulted in a range of environmental, health, and social problems (Saheed, 2023). To address these difficulties, it is imperative to examine the precise hurdles encountered by the solid waste sector in Douala in order to devise focused solutions that can improve the city's waste management system. The objective of this study is to identify and analyse the primary obstacles that impede the efficient gathering, transportation, and disposal of solid waste in Douala. The study aims to analyse these challenges in order to propose strategies for enhancing the effectiveness, durability, and adaptability of the solid waste management sector in Douala. Ultimately, this will lead to a cleaner and healthier urban environment for the city's inhabitants.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The management of municipal solid waste in Douala, Cameroon, encounters various substantial obstacles that impede the efficacy and efficiency of waste management systems. Although Douala has experienced fast urbanisation and population increase, the city has significant challenges in its waste management sector. These difficulties result in heightened environmental contamination, pose dangers to public health, and lead to economic inefficiencies.

Badi (2023) notes that a major challenge faced by the solid waste sector in Douala is the insufficient infrastructure for collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste. Badi asserts that the waste collection services in the city are frequently inconsistent and inadequate, resulting in significant quantities of waste remaining uncollected in residential neighbourhoods, streets, and public spaces. The accumulation of untreated waste leads to the deterioration of the urban landscape, characterised by overflowing trash containers, unauthorised disposal, and obstructed drainage systems, which are prevalent in various areas of the city (Badi, 2023; Malouda et al., 2021). Another notable obstacle is the inadequate quantity of waste disposal facilities and the subpar administration of current ones (Keys et al., 2023). Douala is in need of well planned sanitary landfills, as the current practice of open dumping presents significant hazards to both the environment and public health. The absence of adequate waste treatment facilities results in a significant portion of garbage, including both hazardous and non-biodegradable substances, being deposited in unregulated dumpsites. This leads to the contamination of land and water, as well as the release of greenhouse gases (Yanga, 2019).

According to Paul et al. (2023), the solid waste sector in Douala encounters both financial and institutional obstacles. Municipal authorities frequently provide insufficient financing for trash management, which hampers the ability to invest in essential infrastructure, equipment, and personnel. Moreover, the business is plagued by a dearth of coordination and collaboration among different stakeholders, such as government agencies, private waste management companies, and local communities (Cole et al., 2019). The fragmentation results in inefficiencies due to the presence of overlapping tasks and gaps in the provision of services (Sander, 2017). Moreover, there is a deficiency in public knowledge and involvement in waste management endeavours. A significant portion of the population lacks sufficient knowledge on appropriate methods of trash disposal, recycling, and the significance of minimising waste production (Jesse, 2021). The absence of consciousness regarding this matter exacerbates the continuation of informal waste disposal methods, such as littering and illegal dumping, hence adding complexity to the endeavours of the solid waste business (Faje, 2022).

In addition, the efficacy of trash management in Douala is hindered by regulatory obstacles. The enforcement of current waste management legislation is frequently inadequate, and there are deficiencies in the legislative framework that hinder the establishment of comprehensive and sustainable waste management practices (Badi, 2023; Malouda et al., 2021). The absence of strict laws and supervision enables both trash generators and waste management service providers to disregard rules, worsening the current issues. Insufficient waste management results in environmental pollution, encompassing the contamination of air, soil, and water. The presence of these factors presents substantial health hazards to the population, including respiratory ailments and infections transmitted by vectors (Parker & Clarke, 2022). This study is conducted against this background.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically Investigate the obstacles encountered by the solid waste industry in Douala, Cameroon. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To assess the challenges facing the current waste management infrastructure in Douala

To identify Waste Segregation and Management Practices employed by solid waste industry in Douala, Cameroon

To assess the funding mechanisms and budgetary constraints impacting waste management operations in Douala, Cameroon

To evaluate Regulatory and Policy Frameworks related to waste management in Douala.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

What are the key challenges facing the current waste management infrastructure in Douala?

How effective are current waste segregation and management practices in Douala?

What are the funding mechanisms and budgetary constraints impacting waste management operations in Douala, Cameroon?

How adequate are the existing regulatory and policy frameworks for waste management in Douala?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho: The waste management infrastructure in Douala faces no significant challenge.

Ha: The waste management infrastructure in Douala faces significant challenge.

1.6 Significance of the study

This study is important because it seeks to tackle major challenges in Douala's waste management system, with the potential to improve environmental sustainability, public health, economic efficiency, policy effectiveness, and community involvement. The findings of the study have the potential to result in tangible enhancements and enduring advantages for the city and its inhabitants.

The study aims to mitigate environmental pollution, encompassing air, water, and soil contamination, by finding and rectifying inefficiencies and deficiencies in waste management. Enhanced waste management strategies can result in more pristine urban surroundings and the conservation of natural resources. The results can guide the implementation of sustainable waste management strategies, such as promoting higher rates of recycling and ensuring the appropriate handling of dangerous substances, so supporting the achievement of long-lasting environmental sustainability. The study aims to pinpoint shortcomings in waste management infrastructure and technology, providing guidance for investments and improvements in buildings and equipment. By examining successful methodologies and technologies from different settings, the study might propose inventive solutions customised to meet the specific requirements of Douala, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of waste management.

Furthermore, insufficient waste management can result in health risks, including the transmission of diseases and the exposure to hazardous substances. The study seeks to identify the specific health effects of present methods and suggest ways to improve them. Its objective is to improve public health outcomes and prevent the occurrence of diseases caused by improper waste management. Efficient waste management enhances the living conditions of Douala's residents by minimising noxious smells, pests, and unsightly garbage, so elevating their overall quality of life.

Moreover, the identification of financial limits and inefficiencies in the waste management sector can result in the implementation of more economical solutions and improved allocation of resources. Implementing enhanced waste management strategies can effectively save operational expenses and generate economic advantages. The study aims to reveal prospects for employment generation in the waste management industry and pinpoint potential sources of income, such as recycling initiatives or waste-to-energy schemes.

Moreover, the study will offer vital perspectives on the efficacy of existing policies and laws, empowering policymakers to develop more efficient and all-encompassing waste management legislation. Identifying deficiencies in regulations and difficulties in enforcing them can result in enhanced governance and accountability in waste management, guaranteeing more effective implementation and compliance with policies.

Furthermore, the study's findings and suggestions might provide guidance for future research and interventions in the field of municipal solid waste management, thereby contributing to the existing knowledge base that promotes ongoing enhancements in the sector.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically investigate the obstacles encountered by the solid waste industry in Cameroon. Specifically, this study seeks to assess the challenges facing the current waste management infrastructure in Cameroon and identify Waste Segregation and Management Practices employed by solid waste industry in Cameroon. 

Further, this study will focus on assessing the funding mechanisms and budgetary constraints impacting waste management operations in Cameroon and it also seeks to evaluate Regulatory and Policy Frameworks related to waste management in Cameroon.

 The study is carried out in Douala, Cameroon. 

1.8 Limitations of the study

During the analysis, the researchers noted certain modest constraints that are inherent to all human activities. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, resulting from the scarcity of data on examining the challenges faced by the solid waste business in Douala, Cameroon. Therefore, a significant allocation of time and exertion was necessary to determine the appropriate materials, books, or information and gather data. 

Furthermore, this study is constrained by its small sample size and narrow geographic scope, primarily focusing on Douala, Cameroon. Therefore, the generalisability of the findings from this study is restricted, highlighting the need for further investigation. 

Additionally, the researcher's limitations were primarily due to financial constraints, since they are a student who lacks the requisite financial means to sustain themselves. The exorbitant transportation fees at the study site posed a challenge in meeting the financial obligations related to transportation expenses.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to do this research while simultaneously fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and participating in other educational pursuits.

1.9 Definition of terms

Solid waste: solid waste" means any garbage or refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and from community activities.

Solid waste management: The term solid waste management mainly refers to the complete process of collecting, treating and disposing of solid wastes. In the waste management process, the wastes are collected from different sources and are disposed of. This process includes collection, transportation, treatment, analysis and disposal of waste.