Keywords
pollution
circular economy
public health
Democratic Republic of Congo
How to Cite
Abstract
Organic waste management is a major global health issue, especially in African cities. Rapid urbanization, combined with inefficient collection services and the presence of toxic waste, endangers the health of local communities. In response to growing unsanitary conditions at the central market in Kisangani, this study aims to assess current practices and propose sustainable strategies based on the principles of the circular economy. A quantitative descriptive approach was carried out between January and July 2024. The sample, consisting of 384 stakeholders (traders, sanitation workers, managers), was selected using stratified random sampling. Data collection combined structured questionnaires and direct observations, followed by statistical analysis (Chi²) using Excel and SPSS. The results highlight chaotic management: 78% of waste is left on the ground or in gutters, and only 15.6% of stakeholders sort waste at source. The bivariate analysis shows that the use of bins increases significantly with the level of education (p < 0.01) and that awareness of health risks is more pronounced among long-standing traders. In addition, 85% of respondents criticize the lack of an effective municipal strategy. Unsanitary conditions are the result of poor governance, a glaring lack of infrastructure, and low awareness.
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