Nature And Causes Of Solid Waste Crime At Damongo In The Northern Region Of Ghana

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to examine the nature and causes of solid waste crime at Damongo in the Northern region of Ghana. The research used mixed method approach. Among the data collection tools used included interviews, observation, questionnaire and review of official documents. A sample of 97 households and other key stakeholders concerned with and connected to solid waste management in the District were covered in the data collection. The results show that a combination of changing market forces which sometimes priced solid waste management services beyond the pockets of residents, inadequate environmental regulation and various failed policies and practices were identified as contributing to the presence of waste crime. The results show that there was irregular collection of solid waste by Zoom lion Ghana Limited. The District Assembly has no proper final disposal site. The Assembly also lacked working bye-laws on waste management, a situation which does not motivate the appropriate authority to prosecute offenders of waste crime. It is therefore recommended that there should be effective implementation of the rules and regulations guiding solid waste management as well as the establishment of an effective bye - law for Damongo by solid waste management authorities.