Critical Analysis of the Household Waste Management System in the Third District of Port-Gentil, Gabon
Catherine Rebecca OBOUKA KOWET
Department of Environmental and Marine Geographic Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Omar Bongo University, Laboratory of Spatial Analysis and Tropical Environments (LANASPET), Gabon.
Jean Damien MALOBA MAKANGA *
Department of Environmental and Marine Geographic Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Omar Bongo University, Laboratory of Spatial Analysis and Tropical Environments (LANASPET), Gabon.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In countries of West Central Africa, the interplay between local governance, territorial inequalities, and waste management is generally addressed in a fragmented manner by the daily press and remains largely absent from in-depth scientific research. By combining both quantitative and qualitative data, this study presents a rigorous methodological approach that could serve as a reference framework for similar research in other urban contexts across the sub-region. Furthermore, by valuing community knowledge, it paves the way for more inclusive and participatory governance. This work is part of a research initiative led by the LANASPET laboratory at Omar Bongo University, aimed at documenting a persistent issue that has become central to local governance in Port-Gentil.
Conducted between October 2020 to March 2025 in the 3rd district of Port-Gentil, the study adopts an applied approach combining both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data were drawn from the volumes of waste recorded at the Ntchengué municipal landfill, while the qualitative data were collected through a perception survey among local residents. Four field missions enabled researchers to observe local dynamics and gather the necessary information.
The methodology relies on the compound growth formula to estimate demographic changes in relation to the volumes of waste collected. A sample of 100 households was selected using a simple random sampling method, with proportional representation across two targeted neighborhoods. Geographic coordinates of illegal dumping sites and formal and informal collection points were also recorded to support a spatial analysis of the local waste management system.
The findings highlight the impact of rapid urbanization—driven largely by the oil industry—on a failing waste management system. This system is characterized by territorial inequalities, outdated infrastructure, and poorly controlled pollution. Despite substantial financial resources from oil revenues, local governance struggles to address sustainability challenges.
In response, the study proposes an innovative management model based on transparency, technical expertise, and citizen participation. It is structured around a local waste management plan supported by Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and built upon five key dimensions: technical, social, economic, political/institutional, and environmental.
Keywords: Port-Gentil, household waste management, collection, urban environment