Abstract:
The sanitary state of an area is largely influenced by waste handling practices of the
residents and measures in place for safe waste evacuation and disposal. Despite strategies
that the municipality and local communities have put in place; namely, collection of wastes in
one central spot in some villages, littering of all types of wastes is still on the increase in
many rural areas.
The focus of this study was on common refuse generated at Khakhanwa Village, different
waste management practices and the knowledge of villagers on the impact of poor refuse
management. The study was carried out using the quantitative, descriptive methodology. A
total population of 312 households participated. Data was collected using a structured
questionnaire and ethical aspects were taken into consideration. Data was analysed
descriptively using SPSS version 22.0. It is presented using graphs, tables and pie chart.
The findings show that the respondents satisfactorily showed understanding of waste
management and the impact of poor waste management. Due to lack of waste services, the
majority of the residents resort to storing wastes within their homes, burning it and disposing
of it in open dumping sites as major waste management practices. The most familiar wastes
in Khakhanwa village are decomposable wastes, napkins and plastics. These findings call
for strengthened waste services in rural areas and more waste education amongst all
villagers. Policies on waste management need to be put in motion. Communities need to be
equipped with the knowledge of reducing, reusing and recycling for the purpose of limiting
wastes. Finally school curricula should be adjusted such that they inform learners about
waste management from early ages.
