Investigating the Utilization of Solid Waste Management Segregated Bins (Plastics, Glass, Compost) at Soweto Market of Lusaka District, Zambia

Abstract

Solid waste management remains one of the most pressing urban challenges in Zambia, particularly in Lusaka where rapid population growth and urbanization have outpaced service delivery systems. Soweto Market, the largest and busiest trading centre in the capital, generates significant amounts of waste daily, yet the utilization of segregated bins for plastics, glass, and compost has remained inconsistent. This study set out to investigate the awareness, attitudes, practices, and institutional measures surrounding the use of segregated solid waste bins in Soweto Market, Lusaka District. Data were collected from 246 marketeers through structured questionnaires and from Lusaka City Council (LCC) and market management officials through key informant interviews. The study revealed that awareness of segregated bins was high (96%), but this awareness was mostly informal, gained through peer observation rather than structured sensitization. Despite recognizing the importance of bins for cleanliness and disease prevention, only 22% of traders reported consistent usage, highlighting a clear awareness–practice gap. The findings further showed that attitudes towards waste management were generally positive, but responsibility was often shifted to the LCC, reflecting a dependency mindset. Socioeconomic constraints, such as low income, limited traders’ ability to buy bin liners or pay collection fees, while poor infrastructure and inadequate enforcement weakened compliance. At the institutional level, LCC had established legal and policy frameworks for waste management, but implementation was undermined by funding shortages, inadequate bins and trucks, and poor cooperation from traders. The study concludes that effective solid waste management at Soweto Market requires not only awareness but also strong enforcement, improved infrastructure, and community ownership.