Examining waste management conflicts in the Uganda Police Force : a case of Nsambya Barracks

Abstract

This study examined waste management conflicts in the Uganda Police Force: a case of Nsambya police barracks. With rapid urbanization and increasing population densities in police barracks, waste-related challenges have become overlooked. However, it remains one of the leading causes of conflicts and social tensions in Uganda’s police force barracks. The study was guided by four specific objectives: (1) to assess the waste management practices currently in use within Nsambya Police Barracks; (2) to explore the nature and forms of conflict arising from waste-related issues among police personnel and their families; (3) to analyse the institutional, social, and environmental efforts to mitigate such conflicts; and (4) to identify policy and administrative gaps in waste governance and propose sustainable, peace-oriented interventions. Grounded in Galtung’s Structural Violence Theory and the Social Ecological Theory, the study adopted a qualitative research approach and a descriptive case study design to allow for an in-depth understanding of contextual issues. Data was collected from a purposive sample of 13 key informants, 27 conveniently selected participants for in-depth interviews, and three focus group discussions. The supplementary document review enhanced the empirical findings. The analysis was conducted using content and thematic analysis techniques. Findings revealed that waste management at Nsambya Police Barracks is primarily informal, poorly coordinated, and lacks institutional oversight, resulting in environmental degradation and interpersonal tensions. Conflicts often manifest in forms such as blame-shifting, social division and strained relations between junior and senior officers, as well as between residents and administrators. Although some environmental and social initiatives exist, they are insufficient, fragmented, and lack long-term sustainability. Furthermore, significant policy and administrative gaps in waste governance were identified, with unclear roles, weak enforcement mechanisms, and limited community engagement. The study concludes that sustainable and peace-oriented interventions in waste governance, such as clear institutional mandates, inclusive decision-making, environmental education, and community-based waste management systems, are crucial for conflict prevention and improved coexistence in police settlements. The findings highlight the urgency of integrating environmental management into institutional policy frameworks to promote both environmental justice and social harmony.