It is a mere fact that most African countries lack the resources, infrastructures, skills and expertise necessary to tackle the amount and complexity of solid waste being produced, putting into account that 19 out of the world’s 50 biggest dumpsites are located in Africa.
According to AfDB, high population growth, urbanization rates, and new consumption pathways will exacerbate waste production in Africa, which is projected to exceed 160 million tons by 2025.
It is a fact that urbanisation is on the rise and this trend is expected to continue in the future, however, there must be a way out to make sure that this growing trend is matched with infrastructures to manage our waste.
The report of indiscriminate dumping of waste at the Tanji Fishing Landing Site – the country's biggest fish landing area is a concern and swiftly, the authorities must act to put the menace under control. In most cases, this kind of dumping is orchestrated by the very people using the beach as vendors, buyers and other beach users.
People need to know that indiscriminate waste dumping poses a threat to our health. We should understand that the authorities can act, but changing attitudes must be our ultimate goal towards solid waste management. To achieve this, there must be rigorous sensitisation on the effects of indiscriminate dumping, while on the other hand, enforce anti littering regulation to serve as deterrent for others.
The gap between waste management policy and legislation and actual waste management practices is widening, due to ongoing capacity constraints or non-existence of waste management facilities for the different waste streams in our country. Resolving this capacity gap will require major investments and access to technical knowhow.
Therefore waste generation is expected to increase significantly as a result of so many factors such as urbanisation and modernization of agriculture in Africa.
Aside from enforcing anti littering laws and regulations, authorities must also ensure that infrastructures are readily available to enhance waste management.