Environmental experts in Tanzania are calling for improved waste management systems in markets and abattoirs to address growing concerns over foul smells and public health. According to Dr. Ruth Wegesa, an environmental health specialist, a strong smell is often a symptom of weaknesses in waste management systems and cannot be addressed effectively without tackling its source. She emphasizes that effective management should begin with collecting waste soon after it is generated, particularly because much of the waste from markets and abattoirs is organic.
Dr. Peter Mbando, a waste management expert, notes that organic waste from markets and abattoirs decomposes quickly, especially in Dar es Salaam's humid conditions. He recommends collection schedules based on the volume of waste generated rather than relying on a standard once-a-day system. This approach, he argues, can help reduce foul smells. Dr. Mbando also stresses that waste management systems need to be tailored to specific areas, taking into account the amount of waste generated.
Separating waste at source can also reduce smells and create opportunities to turn organic waste into useful products such as compost, according to Dr. Josephine Malika, an environmental engineer. She cites Surabaya in Indonesia as an example of a city that has successfully implemented waste separation, composting, and community participation to reduce waste sent to landfill and improve cleanliness in commercial areas. This approach, she suggests, can be replicated in Tanzania.
Public health experts also highlight inadequate waste storage facilities as a major challenge facing many markets. Dr. Emmanuel Mbisa notes that the problem is not just the waste, but also the lack of properly covered containers to contain smells and prevent flies. He recommends that markets invest in adequate waste storage facilities to address this issue. Additionally, experts identify the management of blood and wastewater from slaughtering as requiring particular attention at Vingunguti Abattoir.
Modern wastewater treatment systems can significantly reduce smells associated with abattoir operations, according to Dr. Agnesta Mema, an environmental engineer. She notes that blood and animal remains become particularly problematic when they mix with water and are left for long periods. Dr. Mema cites examples of East African countries that have invested in systems for treating abattoir waste, helping reduce environmental problems. Kigali, Rwanda, is also cited as an example of a city that has invested in waste management, community participation, and enforcement of environmental regulations.
Experts stress that public education should complement infrastructure and enforcement efforts to address waste management challenges. Dr. Deogratius Mboja, an air health specialist, notes that traders understand the importance of cleanliness but often lack adequate training on proper waste handling. Regular training, he suggests, can help change behavior and increase participation of stakeholders in addressing the problem. Dr. Patrick Mhando also notes that rapid growth in commercial activity without corresponding investment in sanitation infrastructure can overwhelm existing systems.
In response to these concerns, Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, the minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, has directed Dar es Salaam leaders to strengthen environmental cleanliness campaigns. He has also directed all councils to prepare plans for collecting and processing solid and sludge waste and submit them to his office. Furthermore, Prof. Shemdoe has directed the development of a performance assessment system to monitor councils, municipalities, and cities on environmental cleanliness.
Key points
- Experts recommend collection schedules based on the volume of waste generated.
- Separating waste at source can reduce smells and create opportunities for composting.
- Public education and training are essential to complement infrastructure and enforcement efforts.
