Social Factors Influencing Solid Waste Management in Ishongororo Town Council, Ibanda District, Uganda

Background: Solid waste accumulation remains a significant public health and environmental concern in many emerging urban centres in Uganda, including Ishongororo Town Council, Ibanda District. This study examined the socio-demographic factors influencing awareness, knowledge, and availability of solid waste management facilities among residents. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 125 respondents selected from households within the ward. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression to determine associations and independent predictors. Results: The findings revealed that education level and income were significantly associated with awareness that waste management is an individual responsibility. Multivariate analysis indicated that respondents with secondary education and above were significantly more likely to demonstrate high knowledge of the dangers of solid waste accumulation (AOR = 4.85, 95% CI [1.72–13.66], p = .003), while those earning more than UGX 100,000 per month were also more likely to have high knowledge (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI [1.14–6.25], p = .024). Similarly, the availability of established solid waste handling facilities was significantly predicted by higher education (AOR = 2.94, p = .033), higher income (AOR = 2.41, p = .047), and awareness of waste collection schedules (AOR = 3.56, p = .007). Household size was not a significant predictor in the adjusted models. Conclusion: The study concludes that education, economic capacity, and effective municipal communication are critical determinants of sustainable solid waste management practices. Strengthening environmental education, improving household incomes, and enhancing public awareness of waste collection systems are recommended to improve solid waste management in Ishongororo Town Council, Ibanda District.