East African Geographical Review, 19:1 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN URBAN CENTERS: THE CASE OF KAMPALA CITY- UGANDA.

A deteriorating urban environment is the enemy of sustainable development Protecting the environment is not an alternative to economic growth- it is a precondition of efficient economic development (UN 1992:25). Solid waste management is one of the major environmental problems facing city mu-nicipalities today. In Kampala City, like other urban centers in Uganda, and in most other developing countries, this important service is based on the local government's centralized collection, transportation and disposal strategy. Currently this approach has proved to be inefficient due to the heavy financial requirements involved. There is an urgent need to provide for the safe disposal of the solid waste generated by urban residents and businesses. The increase in urban, economic and industrial activities, as well as the resultant population increase have led to an increase in the quantity of solid waste generated. One method employed in collecting data included field trips to dump sites which are used by the Kampala City Council (KCC). Monitoring of collection points both in the Central Business District (CBD) and in residential areas was also used. Interviews were conducted on personnel, both in the City Engineering and Health Departments and on residents in high, medium and low density residential areas. The results of the study indicate that alternative means to waste disposal need to be developed with population growth and economic development in mind. The state of solid waste management in Kampala needs immediate attention if the urban environment is to be saved from further deterioration. This study is an attempt to characterize the composition of s.olid waste in Kampala, and the management options that the KCC has. The study will also suggest ways to alleviate some of the present solid waste management concerns. Introduction: Backgroun