Attitude regarding solid household waste management in Tshisahulu community in Vhembe district, South Africa

16^th Clinical Nursing & Nurse Education Conference

November 21-22, 2016 Melbourne, Australia

Tshivhase Shonisani Elizabeth

University of Venda, South Africa

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

Background: Poor waste management has been a major problem to human existence and it affects both rural and urban areas. Solid waste management is the second most serious problem after poor water quality in developing countries and is becoming increasingly critical because of rapid population growth, industrialization, and migration. These threaten the health and wellbeing of citizens and increase the spread of diseases. Aims/Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the attitudes of Tshisahulu community members with regard to solid household waste management. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive approach was adopted. Systematic sampling was used to select 369 households to participate in the study. Results: The results showed that out of 369 participants, 243(65.9%) were females and 126(45%) were males. The findings from the study revealed that the general attitudes of the community members towards household waste management were positive. They showed positive attitude regarding their feelings when not surrounded by waste (97.3%) and felt happy when their traditional leaders addressed issues concerning littering (81%) while in any community gatherings. Conclusion: This is an indication that they believed that throwing waste closer to their households had negative impact on their health. Men 58(46%) preferred using compost manure than artificial fertilizers unlike 91(37.4%) females. Therefore Public awareness campaigns through the media and traditional Imbizo should be used to increase waste minimization and reduction of illegal dumping and every household should be provided with a dustbin.

Biography :

Tshivhase Shonisani Elizabeth has completed her MPH degree from the University of Venda and her Bcur Hons from Venda University and BCUR in Nursing Science from the university of South Africa.

Email: shonisani.tshivhase@univen.ac.za