Domestic Wastewater Management System Challenges in Kigogo, Mwananyamala and Tandale Wards, Kinondoni Municipality, Tanzania

Abstract

This study was carried out in 2016; it aimed at assessing the methods of domestic wastewater management systems (DWWMS) among the urban vulnerable population living mainly in informal settlements. It used a case study of informal settlements of Kigogo, Mwananyamala and Tandale wards in Kinondoni Municipality, Tanzania. Multiple research methods were employed for information triangulation purposes. These included a questionnaire administered to 100 randomly selected heads of households probed on various DWW factors in their residential areas; four key informants from DAWASCO office and Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC) on DWW aspects; and observation. The study was guided by the Theory of Planned Behaviours (TPBs); it was purposely employed in order to capture urban households’ conception and behaviours towards DWMS. Results showed that, 51% of households disposed DWW from bathrooms directly to pit latrines; 86% lacked the central collection facilities; 77% mixed DWW with storm water; and 57% disposed DWW at open discharge or surface. Regarding conceptions and behaviours, the study observed that the majority of the households recognised and accepted the role of the local government and other stakeholders in DWW service provision but either violated the regulations consciously or unknowingly or the service was not availed to them. The study concluded that, there was a KnowledgePractice Gap (KPG) on DWMS among the vulnerable population of Kinondoni Municipality leading to generally poor DWW management practices. It recommended mass education for awareness building should be enhanced on proper DWW management. It can be achieved through improved communication and exchange of information between households, KMC and other stakeholders, promotion of local community participation in DWWMS and local community capacity build.