Assessing the Impact of Technology and Enabling Infrastructure on Circular Economy Practices in Solid Waste Management in Garissa, Kenya

Abstract

Aims: To assess the relationship between technology adoption, the adequacy of waste management infrastructure, and the advancement of circular economy practices—specifically resource recovery, recycling, and reuse—in solid waste management systems in Garissa Township, Kenya, in order to evaluate how technological and infrastructural factors contribute to sustainable waste management outcomes. Study Design:  The study adopted the mixed-methods research design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Garissa Township, specifically                across the four administrative wards of Iftin, Township, Galbet, and Waberi located in Garissa County, northeastern Kenya. The research covered the period between April and September                2019. Methodology: The study involved 474 participants from the four wards, including household heads aged 18 and above, county waste management officers, and licensed private waste collectors. Individuals under 18 years, non-residents, and those not actively engaged in waste management activities were not included in the study. Participants were selected using purposive and stratified sampling techniques to ensure balanced representation across institutional and community levels. Results: Of 474 targeted participants, 456 responded, giving a 96.2% response rate. Technological adoption averaged 32%, with GPS tracking (45%), semi-mechanical sorting (41%), and composting (38%) most common. Biogas adoption was 15% but rated most effective (74%). Formal waste collection covered 62% of households, with only two recycling centers operational. Technological adoption correlated positively with recycling rate (r = 0.68, p = 0.03), waste reduction per capita (r = 0.68, p = 0.03), and resource recovery (r = 0.65, p = 0.04), indicating technology improves circular economy performance despite infrastructure gaps. Conclusion: Technology significantly enhances circular economy performance in Garissa Township, but its impact is moderated by infrastructure gaps, highlighting the need for integrated technological and infrastructural interventions. Strategic Interventions & Policy Recommendations: Invest in waste infrastructure, adopt modern technologies, build stakeholder capacity, enforce supportive policies, and engage communities to strengthen circular economy implementation.