UNIVERSITY OF BUEA

FACULTY OF SCIENCE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

COURSE 498

TOPIC: ASSESSING THE ROLE OF GENDER IN MUNICIPAL

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

ALEMSUH ZISUH JUNIOR

(SC18A529)

SUPERVISOR
PROF. VERRONICA EBOT MANGA VERRONICA
MARCH, 2021

1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

Solid waste refers to the range of garbage materials arising from animal and human activities

that are discarded as unwanted and useless. Solid waste is generated from industrial,

residential, and commercial activities in a given area, and may be handled in a variety of

ways, (Eleanor et al.., 1998, pp. 445). Generation of solid waste is a natural consequence of

human life. Removal of that waste is consistent with improved quality of life.

The Waste management for municipalof municipal solid waste is considered a public

service, providing citizens with a system of disposing of their waste in an environmentally

sound and economically feasible way. The amount and composition of waste generated

comprise the basic information needed for the planning, operation and optimisation of waste

management systems. Generation of solid waste is a natural consequence of human life.

Removal of that waste is consistent with improved quality of life. Initially, Ssolid waste

management (SWM) techniques aimed simply to eliminate waste from the vicinity of

habitable areas as a means of maintaining and maintaining protecting public health.1996a).

(Pappu et al., , A., Saxena, M., Asolekar, S.R., 2007)

Waste generation in Africa

African cities have in recent times become the centre of business and socio-economic

activities. While such development had encouraged rural-urban activities, it has also given

rise to more waste generation, especially municipal solid waste (MSW). Trying to represent

the four cardinal sections in Africa, Cairo (North), Lagos (West), Johannesburg (South) and

Nairobi (East) were used to reflect the population concentration and associated waste

distribution across Afro economies. Traditionally, cities are the engines of social

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modernization and economic advancement and at the same time the theatres in which

globalization stages its actions. For Africa, this has meant fuelling the already unprecedented

urban growth and increasing the challenges that go with it. One major challenge is the

management of solid waste. With an average of 0.7 Kg/day of waste generation in the

aforementioned cities, it is clear that high level of waste generation spans from end to end of

the continent, thereby according Africa a common scenario similar to its population and GDP

trends. The characterized waste showed that the bulk of waste from African cities is

organic/putrescible/biodegradable. Variation in generation rates and characteristics is mostly

dependent on the local economies, levels of industrial development, waste management

systems available and lifestyles of the country involved (Simelane & Mohee,2012).

Managing the waste generated and exploring its economic advantage is extremely at infant

stage in entire Africa. It is negatively affected by number of factors which include social

norms and associated concerns, natural environmental issues, economic factors, regional and

national legislation, technological developments, human resource deployment, historical

influences, among others (Simelane & Mohee,2012). Waste collection systems are not

efficient, and engineered sanitary landfills are almost absent in many cities of Africa.

However, the inability to effectively tap the dividends of waste generation and management,

significantly stem from low investment (private) in infrastructure, low academic research and

industry linkages (Iriruaga,2012). Therefore, exploring the economic opportunities of waste

management in Africa is important so as to attract potential investors.

Africa is facing a growing waste management crisis. While the volumes of waste generated in

Africa are relatively small, compared to developed regions, the mismanagement of waste in

Africa is already impacting human and environmental health. However, Africa is set to

undergo a major social and economic transformation over the coming century as its

population explodes, cities urbanize and consumer purchasing habits change. This is

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expected to lead to exponential growth in waste generation which will put considerable strain

on already constrained public and private sector waste services and infrastructure, and further

exacerbate the current state of waste management. In fact, the rate of growth in waste

generation in Africa is expected to be so significant that any decrease in waste generation

expected in other regions globally will be overshadowed by Africa, particularly Sub-Saharan

Africa. In the Sub-Saharan Africa region, the generation of waste is expected to increase at

the highest rate in comparison to other global regions due to high rates of urbanization and

population growth. In 2016, the generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) totalled some

12.4 million metric tons in Algeria.

In Cameroon, and most other developing countries, the problem of inefficient municipal solid

waste management (MSWM) is endemic. This is easily identified by persistent heaps of

uncollected waste found on street sides or ubiquitous illegal dumps. Cameroon is facing high

rates of urbanization, estimated at about 4% annually, compared to an annual population

growth of about 2.7% (World Bank, 2002). Living standards have deteriorated, particularly in the

areas of health and education (World Bank, 2002). Of all sectors, municipal solid waste management

has been one of those most affected. Uncollected and illegally or improperly disposed of wastes

pose serious risks to public health and the environment (Wilson et al., 2003; Olley et al., 2006). The

prevalence of parasites, tetanus, malaria, hookworm, cholera and diarrhoea in many African

countries is attributed to unsanitary conditions caused by waste being simply strewn around cities,

villages and other habited areas (McMichael, 2000). In some African cities, incidents of flash floods,

water pollution and littered landscapes have been attributed to poor waste management practices

(Palczynski, 2002; Henry et al., 2006). Various approaches and methods of waste management in

Africa (Cameroon) includes Collection by HYSACAM, a private company which has been

operating in Yaoundé since 1979 and in Douala since 1969. Collection by community-based

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organisations; several CBOs have been in charge of collection activities in various quarters of

Yaoundé (L Parrot, 2009).

Obstacles to Municipal solid waste management

Financial obstacles

Despite the fact that Cameroonian cities amount for 60% of the GDP, in return they receive

only 1% of public investment. the main source of funding for the waste industry in Yaoundé

is the Waste Removal Collection Tax (TEOM), (MAE et al, 2004).

Institutional obstacles

There is a lack of clear responsibility lines between the various stakeholders. At the local

levels, there has always been a conflict of jurisdiction between urban communities and urban

quarters. (INS et al, 2005)

Physical obstacles

Insufficient functioning of MSW collection is due to the lack of paved roads, with only about

30% of aluy890 roads in Yaoundé being paved and the fact that the urban boundaries are in

continuous expansion thus, stretching the waste collection distance (L. Parrot et al, 2009)

THE CONCEPT OF GENDER

Gender refers to the roles and responsibilities of men and women that are created in our

families, our societies and our cultures. The concept of gender also includes the expectations

held about the characteristics, aptitudes and likely behaviours of both women and men

(femininity and masculinity). Gender roles and expectations are learned. They can change

over time and they vary within and between cultures. Systems of social differentiation such

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as political status, class, ethnicity, physical and mental disability, age and more, modify

gender roles. The concept of gender is vital because, applied to social analysis, it reveals how

women’s subordination (or men’s domination) is socially constructed. As such, the

subordination can be changed or ended. It is not biologically predetermined nor is it fixed

forever (UNESCO 2003). Looking at gender dimensions of MSWM also enables the planners

to note the differences in the behaviour, needs, and the roles played by other social groups.

Women and men play different roles in the MSWM at all levels. At the household level, for

example, they have different responsibilities. At workplaces dealing with waste sorting,

collection, transportation, and planning, there are other key differences. Although the

differences are largely culture specific, it is not common to see women among the high-level

managers of solid waste within municipal or formal private sector institutions (Scheinberg et

al. 1999).

Earning Income In comparison to men, women are mainly engaged in activities requiring

lower levels of education and skills (waste picking from dump sites; sorting and washing,

rather than working at machines) and a more limited range of physical activity (collection,

rather than transportation () .Huysman,1994).

A Gender Perspective of Municipal Solid Waste Generation and Management in the City of

Bamenda, Cameroon highlights the is important because ce it of recognizes ing and

mainstreams ming gender perspectives into municipal waste policies and strategies to achieve

efficient waste management. It argues that although waste generation and management are

influenced by gender politics and gendered divisions of labour, particularly at the household

level , this relationship does not factor into Bamenda’s current municipal waste system. Its

policies and strategies tend to focus on waste collection, transportation and, to a limited

extent, disposal.

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In Cameroon, and most other developing countries, the problem of inefficient municipal solid

waste management (MSWM) is endemic. This is easily identified by persistent heaps of

uncollected waste found on street sides or ubiquitous illegal dumps. As major contributions

this research will help generate the much-needed basic original data, critically examines and

compares the sustainability of MSWM in both cities’ systems, evaluates the environmental

impacts and uses these findings to suggest valuable research, policy and strategic-planning

recommendations needed to make both systems, and others in similar situations, sustainable.

Towns and cities in Cameroon (for example, Buea and Limbe) exhibit the burdens

of waste management which characterise so many African cities. Several factors including

inadequate financial resources, low levels of enforcement of regulations and poor governance

often lead to poor solid waste management services. This work will also help the Council to

mainstream gender in its municipal solid waste management policies and strategies by

recognizing and addressing women's needs. This includes improving access to communal

bins and increasing collections in consultation with households. (UNIFEM, 1993).

[1.1] PROBLEM STATEMENT

Buea exhibit the burdens of waste management which characterise so many African cities.

Several factors including inadequate financial resources, low levels of enforcement of

regulations and poor governance often lead to poor solid waste management services.

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Municipal waste generation in Limbe is estimated at about 7300 tonnes per year, the waste

stream is a heterogeneous mixture of mate-rials and products whose composition varies with

its sources of generation, as well as the socio-economic classification of the locality. Pollutes

the Environment, Damages public health, promotes Environmental racism (i.e. 20

tonnes/day) (Awumet al., 2001).

 Highlight the disadvantages of a poor MSWM system to a community like Buea

Mainstreaming gender in waste programs translate into the integration of both genders’ views

and priorities for waste, improvement of the division of responsibilities and access to the

opportunities, and the inclusive participation of women and men in the decision making

(Achankeng E., 2003).

Current regulations do not adequately address waste handling or disposal. There are

inefficiencies in the implementation of waste management policy due to the devolved

responsibilities between several governmental agencies and the local councils. The paper

discusses some of these constraints and concludes with suggestions for improving the

delivery of sustainable waste management solutions. (Manga V E et al)

This work will also help the Council to mainstream gender in its municipal solid waste

management policies and strategies by recognizing and addressing women's needs. This

includes improving access to communal bins and increasing collections in consultation with

households. (UNIFEM, 1993).

Direct handling of solid waste can result in various types of infectious and chronic diseases

with the waste worker and rag pickers being the most vulnerable. Exposure to hazardous

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waste can affect human health, with children being the most vulnerable to these pollutions. Is

commonly attributed to the lack of funding, technology, planning and expertise.

Mainstreaming gender in waste programs translate into the integration of both genders’ views

and priorities for waste, improvement of the division of responsibilities and access to the

opportunities, and the inclusive participation of women and men in the decision making

(Achankeng E., 2003)1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What is the role gender in solid waste generation?

2. What is the impact of age groups on solid waste generation and disposal and how can

they be determined?

1.3 MAIN OBJECTIVE

 The main goal of this work is to assess the role of gender in municipal solid waste

management

1.4 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE

To specifically, the study seeks to;

1. Eevaluate the role of gender in Solid Waste Generation
[1.] To Ddetermine the impacts of age groups on Solid Waste Generation and

Disposal

1.5 MATERIAL AND METHODS

Limbe is a coastal town located in the Gulf of Guinea with an estimated population of 100,000 and

an annual growth rate of about 2.9% (Awum et al., 2001) compared to a national average of 4.1%

(World Bank, 2002). The economic landscape is dominated by a growing tourism sector as well as

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plantation agriculture and assorted commercial activities. It is dominated by a strongly tropical

climate and with some areas only a few meters above the water table; thus, flooding is common

during the rainy season

Buea has a surface area of approximately 870km square and it is situated at a mean altitude of about

1000m above sea level. Situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Cameroon, the municipality

comprises of several quarters among which includes; Mile 14, Mile15, Mile16 (Bolifamba), Mile17,

Bomaka, Muea, Molyko, Boduma, Great Soppo, Clarks Quarter and Federal Quarters, Buea Town,

Government Residential Area (GRA), Lykoko Membea and Bokwango. The municipality has a tropical

monsoon climate type characterised by two main seasons- dry and wet season with temperatures

ranging between 20⁰C to 28⁰C while annual rainfall ranges between 3000mm-5000mm. The relief of

Buea sub-division is dominated by Mount Cameroon, a strata volcano which is volcanically still active

with a height of approximately 4095m (Bate 2019),

GIVE A VIVID DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA (LOCATION,

CLIMATE, TOPOGRAPHY, DRAINAGE AND SOCIO ECONOMIC

SETTING)

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1.6 METHODOLOGY

1.6.1 DESK STUDY

To achieve these goals multiple triangulated methods will be used, the use of

reliable basic data are non-existent,

The statistical programme for social sciences (SPSS) computer software will beas used to

analyse the survey results.

1.6.2 Field Survey

A reconnaissance survey will be done in order to be familiarized with the study area. A two

visits will be made to the Limbe city in order to be familiarized with the study area.

Meetings will be held resource persons to gather basic data concerning urban Waste

management in the study area. Semi structured interviews will be used to gather basic data

concerning urban and rural Municipal solid waste management in the study area.

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Solid waste from some sampled households will be collected and analysed for generation

rates, quantities and characteristics. In both cities, questionnaire will be administered to

sampled household units selected from some stratified quarters. The survey questions

addressed waste management issues and sustainability indicators that were needed to study,

compare and evaluate the systems within the wider concept of the waste management

hierarchy. Field observations, interviews and a review of secondary sources complemented

the 1.7 Data collection and analysis

A desk study involving consultation of official reports, articles and legal documents

(Decrees) relating to solid waste management in Cameroon will be carried out in order to

obtain background. Secondly, interviews will be conducted concerning hygiene and

sanitation, urban development and the

1.7.1 Sample questionnaire

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 RESEARCH QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE ROLE OF
GENDER IN MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE
MANAGEMENT
Dear respondent, I am called Alemsuh Zisuh Junior , a student from the University of Buea,

Faculty of Science, Department of Environmental Science. This questionnaire is aimed at

assessing “household solid waste management practices in the Buea Municipality”. The study

is in partial fulfillment of the requirements to obtain a bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Environmental

Science at the University of Buea. The answers obtained will only be used for academic purposes

and will be subject to utmost confidentiality.

Section A (Demographic data of respondents).

Please tick the letter corresponding to the right answer.

1) Age group
[A] 20 to 30 years [B] 31 to 40 years [C] 41 to 50 years [D] 51 to 60 years [E] 61 years
and above.
2) Level of Education
[A] First school Living Certificate [B] Ordinary level [C] Advance Level [D] University
degree [E] Post Graduate Degree.
3) Marital Status
[A] Single [B] Married [C] Divorced [D] Widow/Widower
4) Occupation……………………………………………………………………………
5) Monthly income
[A] Less than 50,000frs [B] 51,000frs to 100,000 [C] 101,000 to
150,000frs [D] 151,000 to 200,000frs [E] 201,000frs and Above

To

achieve our objectives, distribution of questionnaires and data collection (waste) from

household will be done in Limbe and Buea, by use of garbage and disposable plastic bags,

recycling cans and hep from a field expert to help distribute these questionnaires.

1.8 EXPECTED RESULTS

 Upon completion of this research, we would gather knowledge about the role of

gender in municipal solid management.

 The impact of age groups on solid waste generation and disposal would be determined

1.9 TIME FRAME AE

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This research will run for a period of two (2) weeks. A week per municipality to ensure

effective and maximum reach out

WEEKS ACTIVITIES

WEEK ONE (BUEA) -Collection of household waste

-Assessment of some Waste management Systems and dump sides

-Distribution of questionnaires

WEEK TWO (LIMBE) -Collection of household waste

-Assessment of some Waste management Systems and dump sides

-Distribution of questionnaires

2.0 BUDGET

BUEA Purpose of funds UNIT COST QUANTITY TOTAL (FRANC

(FRANC CFA) CFA)

Feeding 1500 3 4,500

Plastic bags 300 10 1,500

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 Questionnaires 100 60 6,000
Transport fare around town 1000 3 3,000

LIMBE Purpose of funds UNIT COST QUANTITY TOTAL (FRANC

(FRANC CFA) CFA)

Feeding 1500 2 3,000

Plastic bags 300 10 1,500
Questionnaires 100 60 6,000
Lodging 2000 2 4,000
Transport fare around town 5000 2 10,000

Total: 39,500Fcfa

Tentative Research Plan

Year 2021
Task May June July August
Literature Review- informants
Reconnaissance survey,
Research design & sampling.

Write-up (Chapter 1-2)

Field work
Write-up (Chapter 3-5)
Write-up (First draft)
submission

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Revision and resubmission of
second draft

Submission of final thesis

manuscript
Submission of publication for
peer review

REFERENCE

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 Dennison, G.J., Dodd, V.A., Whelan, B., 1996a. A socio economic based survey of

household waste characteristics in the city of Dublin, Ireland,I. Waste composition.

Resources, Conservation and Recycling 17 (3),227–244.

 McMichael AJ. The urban environment and health in a world of increasing

globalisation, issues for developing countries. Bull World Health Org 2000;200(78):9

 Elenor, l., A.R.W. Jackson and J. M. Jackson (1998). Dictionary of environmenta

science. Edinburgh gate, Harlow, Essexl, Longman ltd.

 (Proceedings of the International Conference on Waste Management and

Environment, 2013, ICWME, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 26 –

27th August, 2013

 Pappu, A., Saxena, M., Asolekar, S.R., 2007. Solid wastes generation in India and

their recycling potential in building materials. Journal of Building and Environment

42, 2311–2320.

 Bate, G. B., J. N, Kimengsi and Amawa, S. G (2019): Determinants and

Policy Implications of Farmers’ Climate Adaptation Choices in Rural Cameroon,

Sustainability 2019, 11, 1921; doi:10.3390/su1107192

 Huysman, Marijk. (1994) `Waste Picking as a Survival Strategy for Women in Indian

Cities', Environment and Urbanization 6 (2).

 UNIFEM; focusing on women-UNIFEM’s experience in mainstreaming, 1993

 L. Parrot et al. /Waste Management 29 (2009) 986-995

 ACHANKENG E. Globalisation, urbanisation and municipal solid waste management

in Africa. In: Proc ASAAP: Africa on a global stage; 2003

 Beall, Jo. 1999. Recognizing Gender Issues in the Management of Urban Waste.

Synthesis Note 5. Department by the Department of International Development

(DFID).

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 Scheinberg Anne, Muller, Maria and Evganie L. Tasheva. 1999. Gender and Waste

UNEP, Working Document 12, 1999.

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