Research Article
The Impact of Solid Waste Management on Community Livelihoods in Gasabo District, Rwanda: A Case Study of Nduba Landfill (2019-2023)
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
108-126
Received:
8 August 2025
Accepted:
5 September 2025
Published:
22 October 2025
Abstract: Solid waste management (SWM) has a direct and critical impact on the livelihoods of communities, especially those residing near major landfills. In Kigali, the Nduba Landfill faces immense pressure from rapid urbanization and poor waste handling practices, resulting in widespread environmental degradation, health issues, and economic hardship for nearby populations. Informal waste pickers also face unsafe working conditions and limited income opportunities due to the absence of formal recognition and support systems. Therefore, the study aimed to the effect of solid waste management and community livelihood in Nduba Landfill. The study employed a descriptive survey design using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The sample was 357 respondents and the data were analyzed using SPSS through descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis. Findings revealed a generally high level of community satisfaction with existing waste management practices, reflected in mean ratings of 4.1 to 4.3, indicating positive perceptions. However, laboratory results showed serious environmental issues. Water samples had critically low dissolved oxygen levels (0.16 mg/L) and elevated Chemical Oxygen Demand (5004.5 mg/L) and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (88.92 mg/L), signaling heavy organic pollution. Soil tests found an alkaline pH of 8.03 and trace metals within acceptable limits, though lead presence (20 mg/kg) requires long-term monitoring. These findings conclude that effective waste management not only sustains acceptable environmental conditions but also significantly enhances socio-economic outcomes for the local community. The most pressing concern identified was the poor water quality caused by landfill leachate, posing serious health risks to the community. The study recommends the installation of effective leachate treatment systems, formal recognition and protection of informal waste pickers, and investment in waste-to-energy initiatives to promote environmental sustainability and strengthen community livelihoods.
Abstract: Solid waste management (SWM) has a direct and critical impact on the livelihoods of communities, especially those residing near major landfills. In Kigali, the Nduba Landfill faces immense pressure from rapid urbanization and poor waste handling practices, resulting in widespread environmental degradation, health issues, and economic hardship for n...
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Research Article
Adoption Patterns and Determinants of Prosopis juliflora Management Interventions Among Households in Baringo South Sub-county, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
127-136
Received:
5 November 2025
Accepted:
17 November 2025
Published:
28 November 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajere.20251004.12
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Abstract: Prosopis juliflora is a highly invasive species in Kenya's semi-arid lands, presenting significant ecological threats while simultaneously offering potential livelihood opportunities. This study aimed to examine the adoption patterns and determinants of its management interventions by using a cross-sectional research design, collecting data from 270 households in Baringo South Sub-County through a multistage sampling technique. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a Generalized Poisson Regression Model (GPRM) to identify adoption patterns and assess the intensity of adoption of the Prosopis juliflora management interventions, respectively. The study findings reveal that the most prevalent management interventions are low-value options, dominated by charcoal production (84.85%) and firewood production (47.73%), whereas there is limited adoption of higher-value alternatives such as livestock feed processing (12.88%) and biochar production (5.68%). The regression analysis showed that adoption intensity is positively influenced by landholding size (p<0.01) and distance to the market (p<0.01), and on the contrary, it is negatively associated with household size, access to credit, casual labour occupation, training, access to information, and awareness of legal frameworks. These findings highlight a critical need for targeted interventions to promote sustainable and diversified Prosopis juliflora management. The study recommends implementing tailored training programs, enhancing market access for higher-value products, and establishing supportive policy frameworks to improve both ecological restoration and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Abstract: Prosopis juliflora is a highly invasive species in Kenya's semi-arid lands, presenting significant ecological threats while simultaneously offering potential livelihood opportunities. This study aimed to examine the adoption patterns and determinants of its management interventions by using a cross-sectional research design, collecting data from 27...
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,
George Owuor
