State of waste management in Africa

Abstract

Chapter 3 presents the state of solid waste generation and management across the African continent. The focus of this chapter is on the quantity of waste generated and its characteristics, waste delivery services, and waste infrastructure, in formal, informal and rural settlements. Emerging issues associated with solid waste and its management are also discussed. Solid waste data for countries and cities are examined and narrated, and relevant case studies and topics sheets are presented. The spatial distribution of solid waste across the continent is mapped and important conclusions and recommendations drawn for future consideration. Although the initial intent behind the Africa WMO was to also produce city and country factsheets, this was not possible owing to a lack of data.