Ibrahim Muhammad

THE EFFECT OF UNWANTED REFUSE DISPOSAL ON HUMAN HEALTH, A CASE STUDY OF YANKURA MARKET OF FAGGE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE. CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Improper refuse disposal is a critical environmental and public health concern, particularly in densely populated urban centers like Kano State, Nigeria. Markets such as Yankura Market in Fagge Local Government Area play an essential role in the local economy but also contribute significantly to waste generation. The accumulation of unwanted refuse due to inadequate waste management systems has far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the environment but also the health of traders, customers, and residents nearby. Urban markets in Nigeria often lack the necessary infrastructure for proper waste disposal, leading to the piling up of waste materials such as food remnants, plastics, and other non-biodegradable items. Studies show that poor waste management in markets is a leading contributor to various public health issues, particularly the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria, cholera, and typhoid fever. For example, a 2022 study by Ogujiuba et al. identified that improper refuse disposal, especially in marketplaces, contributes to the contamination of water bodies and air pollution, which exacerbates the spread of respiratory infections and waterborne diseases in Nigerian cities. Yankura Market, being one of the most active commercial hubs in Fagge LGA, faces significant challenges regarding refuse disposal. Like many markets in Kano, there is no systematic collection, transportation, or disposal of waste. Waste often remains in the market for days, attracting rodents, flies, and other disease-carrying vectors. According to a 2023 report by Ibrahim et al., markets in Kano State have become hotspots for the transmission of diseases, largely due to the inadequate provision of waste management services. This issue has been further exacerbated by the growing population and the increase in market activity. The health implications of improper refuse disposal are well-documented. A 2021 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized that exposure to accumulated waste materials in urban areas can lead to various health problems, including gastrointestinal infections, skin conditions, and respiratory illnesses. Moreover, the presence of harmful gases such as methane and ammonia, which are emitted during the decomposition of organic waste, can lead to long-term respiratory issues, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. In the context of Yankura Market, traders and customers alike are exposed to these health risks. Many of the food items sold in the market are often displayed in close proximity to heaps of refuse, which increases the likelihood of contamination and the spread of foodborne illnesses. A recent study by Olatunji et al. (2023) found that 65% of traders and customers in urban Nigerian markets reported experiencing illnesses they attributed to poor waste management practices. This statistic underscores the pressing need for proper waste disposal systems to mitigate the negative effects on public health. Given the increasing volume of waste generated in urban markets and the associated health risks, there is an urgent need to investigate the specific impacts of unwanted refuse disposal in Yankura Market. This study aims to highlight the link between poor waste management and its detrimental effects on human health, while also offering potential strategies for improving the market's waste disposal infrastructure. 1.2 Statement of the Problem The improper disposal of refuse has become a critical challenge in Yankura Market, Fagge Local Government Area, Kano State. Despite the market’s economic importance, waste management infrastructure and practices have not kept pace with its rapid growth. As a result, heaps of refuse, including organic and inorganic waste, accumulate within the market, leading to adverse effects on human health and the environment. The lack of effective refuse disposal systems has created conditions that promote the spread of diseases, particularly vector-borne and waterborne illnesses. Market users, including traders, customers, and nearby residents, are exposed to various health risks such as cholera, typhoid, and respiratory infections due to the accumulation of refuse. A recent study revealed that poorly managed refuse in Nigerian markets is a major contributor to these public health problems, as waste acts as breeding grounds for disease-carrying organisms like mosquitoes, flies, and rodents (Ibrahim et al., 2023). Moreover, the decomposition of organic waste leads to the release of harmful gases such as methane, which can cause respiratory issues, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions. While some efforts have been made to address waste management in urban markets, the specific case of Yankura Market remains understudied. The market continues to suffer from a lack of adequate waste disposal mechanisms, and the health of its users remains at risk. Public awareness campaigns about the dangers of improper refuse disposal are also limited, leaving many market users unaware of the connection between waste accumulation and health problems. Although there is extensive literature on the general impacts of poor waste management on public health, particularly in urban centers, there is a significant gap when it comes to localized studies focusing on specific markets like Yankura in Fagge LGA. Previous studies, such as Ogujiuba and Ojo (2022), have examined the effects of refuse disposal in broader urban contexts, but few have focused on the unique dynamics of market environments, where food handling and human interactions increase the potential for health hazards. Additionally, many studies have addressed waste management challenges from an infrastructural or policy perspective without exploring the direct health consequences for market users. This study aims to fill this gap by specifically investigating the health impacts of unwanted refuse disposal in Yankura Market. Furthermore, the research will assess the level of awareness among market users regarding the health risks associated with improper waste disposal—an area that has received limited attention in existing studies. 1.3 Research Questions 1. What are the current refuse disposal practices in Yankura Market, Fagge LGA? 2. What are the most common health issues experienced by traders and residents due to poor waste management? 3. How aware are the market users of the health risks associated with improper refuse disposal? 4. What measures can be taken to improve refuse management and minimize health risks in Yankura Market? 1.4. Research Objectives 1. To assess the current refuse disposal practices in Yankura Market. 2. To identify the health risks associated with unwanted refuse disposal in Yankura Market. 3. To evaluate the level of awareness among market users about the health effects of improper refuse disposal. 4. To propose solutions and strategies for improving refuse disposal and minimizing health risks in the market. 1.5. Significance of the Study This study on the effect of unwanted refuse disposal on human health, using Yankura Market in Fagge Local Government Area, Kano State as a case study, is significant for several reasons: The study will provide critical insights into the direct health impacts of improper refuse disposal in an urban market setting. Highlighting the connection between accumulated waste and the prevalence of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and respiratory infections, the research can inform public health strategies aimed at reducing these health risks. This can lead to more effective health policies and interventions to protect traders, customers, and residents who frequent the market. Findings from the study will shed light on the deficiencies in current waste management systems at Yankura Market. This can encourage local government authorities and market management to develop and implement more effective waste disposal mechanisms. The study may also serve as a reference for improving waste management practices in similar markets across Kano State and other urban areas in Nigeria. The results of this research can inform policymakers at both the local and state government levels. It will provide data-backed evidence that can guide the formulation of policies and regulations aimed at improving waste management infrastructure, ensuring stricter enforcement of sanitation regulations, and enhancing public health campaigns targeted at markets. The study will add to the existing body of knowledge on the relationship between refuse disposal and human health in urban environments, specifically in the context of markets. As a localized case study of Yankura Market, it fills a research gap by focusing on the specific challenges faced in Nigerian market settings. This will serve as a valuable resource for future research on environmental health, urban planning, and public health management. 1.6. Scope of the Study The study will focus on Yankura Market, a central trading area in Fagge Local Government Area. It will primarily examine the refuse disposal practices of traders and customers and assess the health risks associated with such practices. The study will also investigate the level of awareness about waste management and its health impact among the market's users. CHAPTER TWO LITERATURE REVIEW 2.0 Introduction The literature review examines relevant studies and concepts related to the effect of unwanted refuse disposal on human health, with a focus on urban markets. This chapter is structured into several sections, including the conceptual framework of waste management, public health implications of improper refuse disposal, and studies specific to markets like Yankura in Nigeria. Additionally, it identifies the research gap that this study aims to fill. 2.1 Conceptual Framework of Waste Management Waste management is a comprehensive process that involves several critical stages, including the collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and final disposal of waste materials. Each stage plays an essential role in ensuring that waste is handled in a manner that protects both public health and the environment. In urban areas, where human activities generate large volumes of waste daily, the need for efficient and sustainable waste management systems is especially pronounced. Poorly managed waste can lead to environmental degradation, air and water pollution, and the spread of diseases, which highlights the importance of effective waste management strategies. Various waste management techniques have been developed to address the increasing volume of waste generated, especially in urban settings. These strategies include sanitary landfilling, where waste is isolated from the environment to prevent contamination of groundwater; composting, which allows organic waste to decompose naturally and be reused as soil conditioner; recycling, which involves the conversion of waste into reusable materials; and incineration, a process where waste is burned at high temperatures to reduce its volume and potentially generate energy (Ogbonna & Chukwuma, 2022). The primary goal of these strategies is to reduce the negative environmental impact of waste accumulation and to minimize the associated health hazards. Efficient waste management, when implemented properly, can significantly mitigate pollution, improve resource recovery, and create a cleaner, safer environment for urban populations. However, in developing countries like Nigeria, the reality is far from ideal. Waste management systems in many Nigerian cities are often insufficient and underdeveloped. According to Bassey et al. (2021), the key barriers to effective waste management in Nigerian urban areas include inadequate infrastructure, poorly enforced waste management policies, and a general lack of public awareness regarding proper waste disposal practices. These issues are particularly prevalent in markets and densely populated areas, where waste is generated in large quantities but remains uncollected for long periods. The inability to promptly remove waste leads to unsanitary conditions, as open dumping and burning become the common methods of disposal. These practices are not only harmful to the environment, contributing to air and water pollution, but they also pose significant public health risks. The problem is exacerbated in market environments like Yankura Market in Kano, where there is a high concentration of daily human activity and a significant amount of waste, including organic matter and plastics. In these settings, the absence of regular waste collection services and designated disposal sites leads to the proliferation of illegal dumpsites and the burning of waste materials, which releases harmful chemicals into the air (Olayinka, 2023). These poor waste disposal practices can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the immediate market environment but also the health and well-being of the traders and customers who frequent these markets. The breakdown in the waste management system in such urban markets is indicative of a broader systemic failure in waste management across many parts of Nigeria, requiring urgent intervention from both local governments and public health officials. 2.2 Public Health Implications of Improper Refuse Disposal Improper refuse disposal poses significant risks to public health, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The accumulation of waste in public spaces, markets, and residential areas creates an environment conducive to the breeding of disease-carrying organisms such as mosquitoes, flies, and rodents. These pests thrive in areas where waste is left unattended, and they are known vectors for various diseases that affect human populations. According to the World Health Organization (2021), inadequate waste management is directly linked to the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and leptospirosis. These diseases disproportionately affect communities in regions where waste is improperly managed, highlighting the urgent need for efficient refuse disposal systems to protect public health. The health risks associated with improper waste disposal extend beyond vector-borne diseases. In many urban markets where refuse is not properly managed, food and water sources are often contaminated by waste materials, leading to the spread of gastrointestinal diseases. A study by Adedeji and Ibitoye (2020) found that markets with poor waste disposal systems have a higher incidence of diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. These markets frequently lack adequate sanitation facilities, and waste piles are often located near food vendors, creating a serious threat to food safety. Contaminated food and water can carry pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses, particularly in environments where hygiene practices are compromised due to the presence of waste. Furthermore, the decomposition of organic waste in these areas releases harmful gases, such as methane and ammonia, which contribute to poor air quality. Prolonged exposure to these gases can lead to respiratory illnesses, including chronic bronchitis and asthma (Afolabi et al., 2022). In addition to respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, improper waste disposal can also lead to other health problems, such as skin infections and allergic reactions. Direct contact with waste materials, especially in areas where sanitation services are lacking, increases the risk of skin-related conditions. For instance, people who work in markets or live near waste disposal sites are more likely to develop skin irritations and infections due to their regular exposure to waste. Similarly, the accumulation of waste in open spaces increases the likelihood of eye irritation and respiratory complications caused by the inhalation of dust and gases from decomposing materials. Children and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to these health effects. Plastic waste presents another major health concern due to its non-biodegradable nature. When improperly disposed of, plastic waste can accumulate in drainage systems, leading to blockages that cause flooding during the rainy season. Flooding not only disrupts daily life but also increases the risk of water contamination, which exacerbates the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery (Ogunbiyi, 2021). Moreover, plastic waste, when burned, releases toxic chemicals such as dioxins and furans, which are harmful to human health. These chemicals can cause long-term health effects, including cancer and reproductive disorders, particularly in populations that are exposed to them over extended periods. The public health implications of improper refuse disposal are extensive and multifaceted. The failure to manage waste effectively leads to the proliferation of disease-carrying vectors, the contamination of food and water sources, and the release of harmful gases that degrade air quality. Addressing these public health challenges requires a comprehensive approach to waste management, including the provision of proper sanitation infrastructure, regular waste collection, and public awareness campaigns on the importance of proper refuse disposal. Such measures are essential to mitigating the adverse health effects associated with improper waste management and ensuring a healthier environment for all. 2.3 Refuse Disposal and Health in Market Settings Markets are known for generating significant amounts of waste due to the high volume of daily transactions, the variety of products sold, and the large number of people who frequent them. The types of waste generated in market settings are diverse, including organic waste such as food remnants, plastic packaging, paper, and other non-recyclable materials. The improper management of this waste can lead to severe health and environmental challenges. In many Nigerian urban markets, refuse disposal is an ongoing problem, with market spaces often turning into unofficial dumpsites due to inadequate waste collection and management systems. Several studies have highlighted the critical challenges associated with waste disposal in Nigerian markets, emphasizing the adverse health implications of these problems. Ogujiuba et al. (2022), in their exploration of waste disposal practices in Lagos markets, revealed that the lack of consistent waste collection services leads to the accumulation of refuse. This buildup of waste results not only in foul odors and unsightly piles of garbage but also creates an ideal environment for disease vectors such as flies, mosquitoes, and rats. These vectors are known to carry diseases like malaria, typhoid, and cholera, which can spread rapidly in densely populated market areas. Furthermore, the decomposition of organic waste contributes to poor air quality, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses among market traders and customers. The situation is similar in other urban Nigerian markets, where poor waste management has been linked to outbreaks of infectious diseases. Oladipo and Ogunbanwo (2023) noted that in markets where waste is not adequately managed, especially during the rainy season, refuse often mixes with floodwaters, leading to the contamination of nearby water sources. This contamination heightens the risk of cholera and other waterborne diseases, as many traders and residents in market areas rely on untreated water sources for drinking and daily activities. The study found that cholera outbreaks are particularly common in markets during periods of heavy rainfall, when refuse is washed into drains and rivers, leading to widespread water contamination. Despite government efforts to improve waste management systems in urban centers across Nigeria, including initiatives aimed at enhancing refuse collection and disposal in markets, many challenges remain. For example, in Yankura Market, located in Fagge Local Government Area (LGA) of Kano State, the problem of poor waste disposal persists. Ibrahim et al. (2023) found that in many markets, waste is left uncollected for days, accumulating in public spaces and attracting scavengers. These scavengers, while searching for reusable materials, often spread the waste even further, exacerbating the unsanitary conditions in the market. Additionally, the lack of designated dumping sites forces traders to dispose of their refuse in nearby streets or open spaces, leading to blocked drainage systems and increasing the risk of flooding during the rainy season. The health risks associated with improper waste disposal in market settings are not limited to disease outbreaks. The unsanitary conditions created by refuse buildup also pose a direct threat to food safety. Many traders sell fresh produce and other perishable goods in open areas, where waste piles are often located nearby. This proximity increases the likelihood of food contamination by harmful bacteria and pathogens, which can lead to foodborne illnesses among consumers. The combination of inadequate waste management, poor sanitation, and the high volume of waste generated in markets creates a complex public health challenge that requires urgent attention. The link between refuse disposal and health in market settings is clear. Markets generate large quantities of waste, which, if not properly managed, can lead to the spread of infectious diseases, food contamination, and environmental degradation. Efforts to improve waste management in markets like Yankura Market are crucial for protecting public health and ensuring a clean, safe environment for traders and customers alike. Addressing the challenges of waste disposal in these settings requires not only better infrastructure and regular waste collection services but also increased awareness among market users about the importance of proper waste management practices. 2.4 Government Policies on Waste Management in Nigeria Over the years, the Nigerian government has introduced various policies aimed at addressing the challenges of waste management and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for its citizens. Two significant policies in this regard are the National Environmental Sanitation Policy (2005) and the National Policy on Solid Waste Management (2018). These policies underscore the importance of sustainable waste management practices, which are essential not only for environmental conservation but also for protecting public health. They highlight the need for proper waste collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal methods that mitigate the negative effects of improper refuse handling. The National Environmental Sanitation Policy (2005) laid the groundwork for a comprehensive approach to managing sanitation-related issues, including waste disposal. This policy sought to improve the overall cleanliness of urban and rural areas by establishing guidelines for the proper disposal of solid waste, the enforcement of environmental laws, and the promotion of public awareness on sanitation issues. Similarly, the National Policy on Solid Waste Management (2018) was designed to provide a more structured approach to solid waste management in Nigeria. This policy aimed to ensure that waste management practices are sustainable and environmentally sound, incorporating strategies like waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal to minimize the adverse impacts of waste on health and the environment. Despite the introduction of these policies, their implementation has been inconsistent, particularly at the local government level. Fagge Local Government Area (LGA), like many other local governments across Nigeria, struggles with enforcing waste management regulations effectively. Studies by Nwachukwu et al. (2021) reveal that limited financial resources, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of public awareness are some of the primary obstacles hindering the successful implementation of these policies. For instance, Fagge LGA has been noted for having insufficient waste collection services, with refuse often left uncollected for extended periods in areas like Yankura Market. This situation is further exacerbated by the high volume of waste generated in markets, which creates significant health hazards when not managed properly. The challenge of enforcing waste management regulations is not limited to financial and infrastructural constraints. Corruption and inefficiency within waste management agencies also play a significant role in the failure to execute these policies effectively. There have been reports of mismanagement of funds allocated for waste management, as well as a lack of accountability among officials responsible for overseeing refuse collection and disposal. As a result, markets such as Yankura Market in Fagge LGA remain vulnerable to refuse-related health risks, with waste accumulating in public spaces and contributing to the spread of diseases like cholera and typhoid. Furthermore, public participation and awareness are crucial components of effective waste management. However, in many areas, the lack of public engagement with waste management policies has made it difficult to achieve the desired outcomes. Many residents and traders in markets like Yankura are unaware of the health risks associated with improper waste disposal and are often not provided with adequate facilities for proper waste segregation and disposal. This situation points to the need for more targeted awareness campaigns and education programs that inform the public about the importance of waste management and the role they play in maintaining a clean and safe environment. However, while the Nigerian government has made commendable efforts to establish policies that address waste management challenges, the gap between policy and practice remains wide. The ineffective implementation of these policies, particularly at the local government level, has left many areas, including Fagge LGA and its markets, exposed to the dangers of improper refuse disposal. Addressing these issues requires not only improved financial and infrastructural support but also greater transparency and accountability within waste management agencies, as well as increased public awareness and participation. 2.5 Health Awareness and Behavioral Change Public awareness is a key factor in addressing the issues related to improper refuse disposal and its subsequent health risks. When individuals are informed about the dangers posed by waste accumulation, they are more likely to change their behavior and adopt practices that contribute to better waste management. In the context of markets, where large volumes of waste are generated daily, educating traders and customers on the health risks associated with improper refuse disposal can significantly improve sanitary conditions. Studies such as those by Amusa and Oladele (2022) highlight the importance of health awareness initiatives in fostering positive behavioral changes among market users, which can reduce the incidence of waste-related diseases and environmental degradation. However, in many Nigerian markets, including urban settings like Yankura Market in Fagge LGA, awareness campaigns are often lacking or poorly executed. This deficiency has a direct impact on waste management practices. According to Balogun and Salawu (2023), approximately 70% of traders in Nigerian markets were unaware of the link between improper refuse disposal and the spread of diseases. This lack of awareness prevents traders from taking proactive measures to ensure that their surroundings are clean and free of waste. Many traders are either indifferent to or ignorant of the potential health hazards posed by accumulated refuse, leading to continued practices such as open dumping and littering. The study by Balogun and Salawu (2023) further emphasizes the role of public health campaigns in changing attitudes and behaviors towards waste management. Their research demonstrated that in markets where public health campaigns were conducted, there was a significant reduction in the incidence of waste-related diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and respiratory infections. These campaigns focused on educating traders and customers about the health risks posed by improper refuse disposal and provided practical guidance on how to maintain cleanliness in their immediate environment. As a result, market users became more conscious of their waste disposal habits, leading to a cleaner and healthier marketplace. Despite these positive outcomes, the challenge lies in ensuring that such awareness campaigns are not only effective but also widespread and continuous. Many markets in Nigeria do not receive the level of attention needed for sustained behavioral change. Public health officials and local government authorities often face challenges in organizing regular health awareness campaigns due to limited funding, logistical constraints, and lack of political will. This results in a disconnect between the government's efforts to improve waste management and the actual behavior of market users on the ground. Moreover, behavioral change is not solely influenced by knowledge; it is also shaped by access to proper waste disposal facilities and the enforcement of regulations. Even when individuals are aware of the health risks, they may still engage in improper disposal practices if adequate waste collection services are unavailable. In markets like Yankura, where waste collection is irregular and designated dumping sites are scarce, traders may have no option but to dispose of refuse in open spaces. Therefore, effective behavioral change requires a holistic approach that combines education with the provision of proper infrastructure and consistent policy enforcement. Raising public awareness about the health implications of improper refuse disposal is crucial to achieving better waste management outcomes in market settings. While knowledge alone may not be enough to effect change, it plays a fundamental role in shaping attitudes and behaviors towards waste. When combined with appropriate facilities and robust public health campaigns, increased awareness can lead to significant improvements in market hygiene, ultimately reducing the burden of waste-related diseases. CHAPTER THREE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY This chapter describes the methodology used in the study, including the research design, study area, population and sample size, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques. The methodology is structured to effectively assess the effect of unwanted refuse disposal on human health in Yankaura Market, Fagge Local Government Area, Kano State. 3.1 Study Area Yankaura Market is a major commercial hub located in Fagge Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria. The market accommodates a wide variety of traders dealing in foodstuffs, clothing, household goods, and other essential commodities. Due to high human and commercial activity, the market generates a substantial amount of refuse daily. However, there is a lack of an effective and systematic refuse collection and disposal mechanism, leading to frequent accumulation of waste in and around the market. The absence of proper disposal methods results in open dumping, blocked drainage systems, and burning of waste, all of which pose serious environmental and health risks to traders, customers, and nearby residents. The study focuses on this market due to its high population density, visible waste accumulation, and frequent health complaints among market users. Understanding the waste management challenges in Yankaura Market will provide insights into the broader issue of refuse disposal in urban markets in Nigeria. 3.2 Research Design The study adopts a descriptive survey research design, which allows for the collection of data from a representative sample of the population to understand their perspectives on refuse disposal and its health effects. This design is suitable for studies that seek to describe existing conditions, attitudes, and behaviors of a particular group (Creswell, 2021). By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, the study ensures a comprehensive examination of the subject matter. Quantitative Approach: Structured questionnaires will be used to gather measurable data from market traders, customers, and residents regarding their waste disposal practices and awareness of health risks. Qualitative Approach: Interviews and direct observations will be used to gain in-depth insights from key stakeholders such as market officials, waste management personnel, and health officers. 3.3 Population and Sample Size The target population for this study includes: Traders: Individuals who sell various products in the market and generate waste as part of their commercial activities. Customers: Market visitors who may be exposed to health risks associated with poor waste disposal. Nearby Residents: People living around Yankaura Market who may suffer the consequences of improper refuse disposal. Using the Yamane (1967) formula for determining sample size, the study selects a sample of 150 participants, which will be stratified as follows: 50 traders 50 customers 50 nearby residents A stratified random sampling technique will be used to ensure each category of respondents is adequately represented, enhancing the reliability of the study’s findings. 3.4 Data Collection Methods To obtain comprehensive data, the study will employ three primary data collection methods: 3.4.1 Questionnaire (Likert Scale Format) A structured questionnaire will be developed to assess the perceptions, knowledge, and experiences of respondents regarding refuse disposal and its impact on health. The questionnaire will contain: Demographic Information: Age, gender, occupation, and level of education. Waste Disposal Practices: Frequency of waste disposal, preferred disposal methods, and challenges encountered. Health Implications: Self-reported illnesses, perceptions of health risks, and awareness of hygiene practices. Knowledge and Awareness: Awareness of government regulations, community sanitation programs, and willingness to adopt better waste disposal methods. The questionnaire will utilize a five-point Likert scale, where respondents will indicate their level of agreement or disagreement with various statements. Sample questions include: Statement Strongly Agree (5) Agree (4) Neutral (3) Disagree (2) Strongly Disagree (1) I dispose of my waste properly every day. ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Poor waste disposal affects my health. ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ There are adequate waste bins in Yankaura Market. ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ 3.4.2 Interviews (Qualitative Data Collection) Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with key informants, including: Market officials: To understand the challenges in enforcing waste management regulations. Health officers: To assess reported health conditions linked to refuse disposal. Waste management personnel: To evaluate the effectiveness of waste collection and disposal strategies. The interviews will be open-ended to allow respondents to provide detailed information on their experiences and perspectives. 3.4.3 Direct Observation Field observations will be carried out to visually assess waste disposal practices, accumulation points, and sanitation conditions in the market. An observation checklist will include: Presence of refuse bins and their condition. Frequency of waste collection by sanitation agencies. Instances of open dumping and burning of refuse. Signs of vector infestation (flies, rodents, mosquitoes). Blocked drainage systems due to waste accumulation. These observations will supplement the questionnaire and interview findings by providing real-time evidence of the waste management situation in Yankaura Market. 3.5 Data Analysis The collected data will be analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques: Quantitative Data (Questionnaire Responses) Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations will be used to summarize and interpret the Likert scale responses. Data will be analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) Version 26 for accuracy and efficiency. Qualitative Data (Interviews and Observations) Responses from interviews will be analyzed using thematic analysis, where key patterns and themes related to refuse disposal challenges and health effects will be identified. Observation findings will be presented descriptively with supporting photographs where applicable. 3.6 Ethical Considerations To ensure ethical compliance, the study will adhere to the following principles: 1. Informed Consent: Participants will be fully informed about the study’s purpose, and their consent will be obtained before participation. 2. Confidentiality: Responses will remain anonymous, and personal information will not be disclosed. 3. Voluntary Participation: Participants will be informed that they can withdraw from the study at any time without consequences. 4. Non-maleficence: The study will ensure that no harm—physical, psychological, or social—is inflicted on participants.