Influence of Informal Electronic Waste Disposal Practices on Public Open Spaces Pollution in Nyarugenge District, City of Kigali, Rwanda

This study assessed the influence of informal electronic waste disposal practices on public open spaces pollution in Nyarugenge District, City of Kigali, Rwanda. Specifically, the study examined common informal disposal practices, assessed pollution levels in public spaces, and determined the relationship between informal disposal practices and environmental pollution. A quantitative research design was adopted, using a structured questionnaire administered to residents in the sectors of Gitega, Nyamirambo, and Kimisagara in Nyarugenge District, with a population of 374,319 residents and a sample of 207 respondents at a 93% confidence level. Stratified random sampling techniques were used to select respondents from targeted public open spaces, including roadsides, garages, market areas, drainage channels, and vacant lots. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, as well as an inferential approach of Chi-square in SPSS. Findings indicated that 89% of respondents confirmed the existence of informal e-waste handling practices in their communities, while 95% reported a lack of access to formal e-waste disposal facilities. Mobile devices were the most commonly disposed of electronic e-waste, reported by 90.3% of respondents. In addition, 82% of respondents observed e-waste pollution in public open spaces, such as roadsides and drainage channels, while 95.6% confirmed environmental degradation linked to e-waste disposal. Common environmental concerns included hazardous waste accumulation (56.04%), water pollution (46.86%), and visual pollution (45.89%). In addition, respondents reported health problems associated with e-waste exposure, including injuries (50%). Statistical analysis indicated a significant association between informal e-waste disposal behaviours and pollution in public open spaces. The study concludes that ineffective e-waste management poses serious environmental and public health challenges and recommends improved formal collection systems, stronger public awareness initiatives, and sustainable waste management interventions.