Community-Led Waste Management in Dar Es Salaam

URBAN RESILIENCE AND LOCAL GOVERNANCE SERIES

Rapid population growth is leading to an increased demand for urban services. This is taking place at rates that are beyond the capacity of local governments. Furthermore, local governments have experienced challenges in providing services in informal settlements, leaving them excluded from the benefits of urban services. Service provision is a responsibility of local governments, and in Tanzania, the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania under Act no.14 advocates that “every person has the right to live and to the protection of his life by the society in accordance with the law”. Community mobilisation has proven effective in promoting alternative waste management practices in informal contexts. These practices should integrate with urban service delivery systems, support a circular economy, and align with national waste management policies. The points below capture a reflective conversation organisation through four key questions, unpacking waste management in Tanzania, providing insight into how community led processes offer value and require a different worldview to implement effectively.