How Waste Disposal Impacts Communities in Sierra Leone's Western Region
Explore the FindingsWaste management represents a critical challenge across Africa, causing both immediate health issues and contributing to adverse effects on the global climate 1 .
The urban population of Sierra Leone has nearly doubled since 1967, rising from 21.8% to 40.3% by 2016, placing tremendous strain on waste management infrastructure 9 .
The region has only three major landfill sites, none of which feature proper engineering controls to prevent leachate contamination of groundwater 9 .
Research indicates that many residents lack basic waste containment, with significant portions of the population not having dustbins or containers in their compounds 1 .
Approximately 7% of the population disposes of waste directly into rivers and streams, contaminating crucial water sources 8 .
Over half of the population (56%) relies on open dumpsites or landfills, which often lack environmental safeguards 8 .
Limited availability of municipal waste collection services leads to reliance on problematic disposal methods 1 .
To better understand the dynamics of waste disposal and its effects on community health, researchers conducted a comprehensive study focusing specifically on communities within the Freetown municipality 1 .
The study engaged 300 respondents from across the targeted communities, ensuring representation from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds 1 .
Researchers utilized a non-probability sampling technique to collect information through surveys and interviews, gathering both quantitative data on waste practices and qualitative insights into community perceptions 1 .
The team identified and categorized the most common types of domestic waste found in the study areas, with particular attention to materials posing specific environmental or health risks 1 .
Researchers correlated disposal practices with community health outcomes, paying special attention to respiratory, gastrointestinal, and vector-borne diseases linked to improper waste management 1 .
The study uncovered critical connections between waste disposal methods and community health outcomes.
| Health Condition | Primary Waste Link | Impact Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Respiratory illnesses | Open burning releasing particulates |
|
| Malaria | Water collection in plastic/rubber containers |
|
| Kidney & heart conditions | Toxic exposure from burning plastics |
|
| Diarrheal diseases | Water source contamination |
|
| Cholera | Poor sanitation near waste sites |
|
The findings demonstrated that burning waste—particularly plastics—releases toxic compounds that can damage vital organs, including the heart and kidneys 1 . Additionally, the use of rubber and plastic containers around homes creates standing water that serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing malaria transmission 1 .
Effective interventions require a multi-faceted approach combining community engagement, infrastructure development, and policy reform.
Successful interventions often blend traditional awareness campaigns with practical demonstrations of safer alternatives, such as waste separation at source and community clean-up campaigns 4 .
Technical solutions must be supported by appropriate infrastructure development to create sustainable waste management systems 4 .
The challenge of domestic waste disposal in Sierra Leone's Western Region is more than an environmental inconvenience—it's a multifaceted public health crisis with tangible consequences for community wellness.
The evidence is clear, the solutions are known, and the time for action is now. Our communities' health literally depends on what we do with our waste.