Abstract
Introduction: Many households may not be aware of the importance of proper waste disposal or may lack knowledge about recycling and composting. Access to resources such as waste collection services and recycling facilities plays a crucial role in determining how households manage their solid waste.
Methods: The study was quantitative using survey methods. Therefore, four hundred and twenty-two structured questionnaires were employed to collect data. The study comprised a total of 422 households recruited. One adult representative was recruited from Gumbani village to participate in the study. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 29.0 programme. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to summarise and present the data. The permission to conduct the study was requested from the Gumbani Tribal Authority. Confidentiality and anonymity were ensured.
Results: The study findings indicated that 213 (50.5%) of the participants agreed that they dispose of waste on public roads, 216 (51.7%) of the participants disagreed that they dispose of waste in the riverbanks, and 228 (54.0%) of the participants disagreed that they store waste in the plastic bags.
Conclusion: The research identifies that the household solid waste management practices in Gumbani Village are influenced by a mix of socio-economic, cultural, and institutional determinants. Poor access to waste disposal services, low levels of environmental awareness, and poor support from the municipality are major inhibitors of good waste management. In response to these, effective education campaigns must be introduced, service delivery promoted, and inclusive policy development started that incorporates community involvement. Proper waste management in rural communities like Gumbani is not only necessary for public health but also for environmentally sustainable development.