Waste Management Practices and Implementation of Sanitation Projects Supported by Non-governmental Organizations in Mathare Informal Settlements, Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Sanitation project success in informal settlements is often hampered by inadequate waste management practices. This study examined the influence of waste management practices specifically, waste disposal methods, source reduction and reuse, recycling, and waste collection, on the implementation of sanitation projects supported by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Mathare informal settlements, Nairobi County, Kenya. Guided by Resource Dependence Theory, Institutional Theory, Resource-based View, and Stakeholder Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population included various stakeholders involved in the sanitation projects, including community members and NGO representatives. Stratified random sampling was used to select respondents, and data were collected through structured questionnaires. The analysis, comprising both descriptive and inferential statistics, was presented in tables and charts. The findings indicated that waste disposal methods, particularly landfills and composting, are crucial but face challenges due to low community education and participation, with a positive but not statistically significant impact on project success (P-value > 0.05). Source reduction and reuse practices were also essential but were limited by accessibility and awareness issues, similarly showing a non-significant impact on project outcomes (P-value > 0.05). In contrast, recycling practices, especially close-loop recycling, demonstrated a significant positive influence on project success, with effective recycling leading to better project outcomes (P-value < 0.05). Waste collection services, managed by both private and public entities, were found to have a significant impact, where improved coordination and responsiveness to community needs led to enhanced project implementation (P-value < 0.05). The study concluded that effective waste management practices are integral to the successful implementation of sanitation projects in Mathare, but their impact varies by the type of practice and the level of community engagement. It is recommended that NGOs focus on enhancing community education, improving access to waste-reducing products, expanding recycling infrastructure, and strengthening collaborations with waste collectors to improve the overall success of sanitation projects in informal settlements.