Developing a National Waste Management Strategy for Uganda: A Benchmarking Study with Japan and Sweden's National Waste Management Policy

Abstract

Uganda faces significant waste management challenges, with rapid urbanization and population growth exacerbating the issue (National Environment Management Authority, 2020). This study aims to develop a national waste management strategy for Uganda by benchmarking Japan and Sweden's successful waste management policies (Ministry of the Environment, 2020; Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, 2019). A comprehensive review of Japan and Sweden's national waste management policies revealed effective strategies, including waste reduction and recycling programs (Japan's "3Rs" initiative), waste-to-energy conversion facilities (Sweden's biogas production plants), and national waste management frameworks (Ministry of the Environment, 2020; Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, 2019). Uganda's current waste management practices were analysed, highlighting inadequate waste collection and disposal infrastructure, limited public awareness, and lack of effective policies and regulations (National Environment Management Authority, 2020). This study recommends adopting a tailored national waste management strategy for Uganda, incorporating best practices from Japan and Sweden, including implementing waste reduction and recycling programs (Kaseva & Mwamburi, 2015), developing waste-to-energy conversion facilities (Cheng & Hu, 2010) and establishing a national waste management framework (European Commission, 2019). By adopting a comprehensive national waste management strategy, Uganda can improve waste management practices, reduce environmental pollution, and promote sustainable development (United Nations Environment Programme, 2019).