The Role of Stakeholders and Technological Innovations in Enhancing Waste Governance and Service Delivery

Abstract

This study explored the role of stakeholder collaboration, including communities, scavengers, planning authorities, and other actors, in enhancing urban solid waste governance in rapidly growing cities. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from community members, CBOs, local government officials, and private waste managers through surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and secondary sources. The findings reveal that collaboration improves policy implementation, resource mobilization, and accountability, whereas community participation fosters compliance and sustainable practices. Challenges, such as low public awareness, weak regulatory enforcement, and inadequate infrastructure, hinder progress. Technological innovations like GIS mapping and mobile waste management apps show potential for improving waste collection and reducing illegal dumping, though their adoption remains limited by cost and capacity constraints. Statistical analysis confirms that collaboration, participation, and innovation significantly enhance waste governance, with their combined application having the greatest impact. The study recommends capacity building, stronger enforcement, greater community awareness, and the adoption of affordable technologies, emphasizing the importance of partnerships among local authorities, private sectors, and CBOs to achieve sustainable waste management.