Abstract:
Solid waste management (SWM) is a critical environmental and public health issue in rapidly urbanizing cities, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia. This study assesses the challenges and opportunities of SWM practices in Lemi Kura Sub-city, Addis Ababa, a locality experiencing significant population growth and urban expansion. The study employed mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected from 371 household surveys, while qualitative insights were gathered through interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. The findings reveal that although waste collection services operate 2 to 3 times per week, 54.7% of residents rated them as average or below, indicating widespread dissatisfaction. Major challenges include limited waste collection coverage (25.6%), low public awareness (22.1%), and inadequate disposal facilities (17.5%). However, the study also identifies opportunities such as expanding waste collection services (26.7%), promoting community-based waste management (25.1%), and enhancing public awareness (21%). Waste composition analysis shows a high proportion of organic (41%) and recyclable (25.9%) materials, suggesting strong potential for composting and recycling programs. The study concludes that while there is moderate satisfaction in some districts, widespread dissatisfaction, poor infrastructure, low community participation, and weak financial mechanisms hinder effective SWM. Nonetheless, the presence of recyclable and organic waste presents a viable opportunity for sustainable waste solutions. The study recommends targeted interventions to improve infrastructure, enhance public awareness, and support community-driven waste management initiatives. These efforts are essential to building a sustainable, efficient, and inclusive waste management system in Lemi Kura Sub-city, which can serve as a model for other urban settings in Ethiopia and beyond
