Household Behaviour on Solid Waste Management a Case Study of Kicukiro District, in Kigali City Rwanda

ABSTRACT The study examined Household behavior on solid waste management in Kigali city RWANDA. The study was guided by the following objectives; attitudes of people towards solid waste management, the nature of solid waste generated by households in Kigali city, solid waste practices and problems associated. The finding revealed that the people’s attitudes and behavior was positive. This study used the quantitative approach which was based on the questionnaires helped to establish the correlation between the independent and dependent variables. A number of highlighted the benefit of good waste management practices as health, clean environment and prevention of disease. Most households considered cleanliness and the environment as primary concerns for engaging in, waste management activities. 68% are engaged in waste segregation because they believe the pradice kept their house clean and free of house pests, while 58% thought it was good for the overall environment. 45% of those practicing waste segregation indicated they did so because it was mandated by local government. Local Community participation in cleaning known as UMUGANDA rusange was highly appreciated and has contributed to changing the people’s behavior towards waste management. The problems faced included the inadequate service coverage and inefficiencies, inadequate land fill disposal areas. This study concluded that there are no hard-and-fast rules for government to follow in designing and implementing their SWM programs. A disciplined and cooperative community should be considered a resource by itself that should be tapped to ensure an effective SWM effort. There should be no hesitation or apprehension on the part of the government to impose garbage collection fees.