An exploration of sanitation and waste disposal practices in low income communities in Accra, Ghana

Poor sanitation and solid waste disposal practices in communities result in environmental pollution. Thus, the study investigated sanitation and waste disposal practices from community members’ perspectives. A qualitative research approach was adopted. The population of the study was all residents in the Odaw-Korle River Catchment, Accra. The sample frame was the three selected low income communities; Alajo, Nima, and Sabon Zongo. Up to 76 individuals were conveniently sampled for the study. The data collection instrument used was a focus group interview guide. Drawing from the grounded theory and content analysis approaches to qualitative data analysis, the focus group discussion notes were analyzed through a process of constant comparison of codes, ideas, and themes. Poor sanitation and waste disposal practices are due to failures in community collective action, poor practices, and insufficient facilities. The city authority can collaborate with community members to address the environmental problems.