Socioeconomic analysis of household waste production in Ouesso, Republic of Congo

Managing household waste is a major challenge in sub-Saharan African cities, where rapid urbanization, population growth, and changing consumption patterns are straining existing systems. In Ouesso (northern Congo), the lack of modern collection and treatment infrastructure worsens waste accumulation and its environmental and health impacts. However, limited research has examined how household socioeconomic characteristics influence waste quantity and composition. This study investigates the influence of household size and standard of living on waste production and composition. Its objectives are to quantify waste generation per borough, analyse compositional differences based on household occupation, and assess links between socioeconomic factors and daily waste production. A sample of 100 households from two districts in Ouesso was monitored over one month. Waste was regularly collected, sorted, and weighed using the MODECOM method, while surveys provided data on household size, income, and occupation. Results show that daily household waste production, ranging from 0.45 to 0.60 kg, does not significantly vary by district or household size. Average waste density is 416.76 ± 96.85 kg/m³ in Mbindjo and 370.07 ± 92.8 kg/m³ in Nzalangoye. Waste composition is dominated by biodegradable materials, followed by plastics and paper/cardboard, indicating relatively homogeneous consumption patterns. However, socioeconomic differences are evident: formal sector and middle-class households generate more total waste, while lower-income or informal households produce less overall but relatively more per capita. These findings highlight the need for differentiated waste management strategies integrating organic recovery, plastic reduction, and targeted awareness to support urban sustainability and resilience.