Unbridled Increase in Illegal Waste Dumping: Unmasking the Behavior and Perspectives of Residents on Waste Management in Mkoba 16 Township, Gweru, Zimbabwe

Residents’ behavior and perspectives towards unbridled increase in illegal dumping of waste were the main drivers of this study. The study adopted an exploratory research design and a qualitative approach to gain insight into the attitudes and behavior of the targeted population. The population sample comprised of fifty participants specifically forty residents of Mkoba 16 Township, two Development agents, councilor, two Environmental Officers from Gweru City Council, one Environmental Health Technician from Environmental Management Agents (E.M.A), one Driver, two bin loaders and one general hand in the department of Waste Management all operating within Mkoba 16 Township. Three focus groups were also conducted with residents and face to face interviews were conducted with the councilor, environmental officers and development officers. The study found out that different perspectives and behavior towards waste were confirmed to be the main causes of illegal waste dumping. Lack of bins or receptacles also influences residents’ behavior towards waste management. The study recommends the need to instill a sense of ownership in residents through allowing them full participation in waste management initiatives. It is critical for the City of Gweru to hold workshops and consultations with all the residents and stakeholders on the proper handling of waste.