Municipal Waste Streams in a Rapidly Urbanizing Coastal City: Evidence from a Field‑Based Operational Study

Background Rapid urbanization in Bosaso City has intensified challenges in municipal solid waste management, with limited infrastructure and minimal source segregation. Reliable baselines have been lacking, hindering planning, investment, and evidence-based policy development. This study addresses the gap by establishing the city’s first weighbridge-verified dataset. Methods A seven-day operational study was conducted using weighbridge measurements, truck trip logs, and systematic waste sampling. Data were collected from 27 active trucks (51 trips) among a fleet of 36, with composition analysis performed on seven representative vehicles . Daily throughput and waste composition were quantified, and extrapolated values were calculated to provide indicative annual estimates. Results Daily throughput was estimated at approximately 264 metric tonnes, equivalent to 96,300 tonnes annually. Waste composition comprised residuals (34.6%) , organics (28.3%), and recyclables (33%) , translating to ~ 91 tonnes of residuals , 75 tonnes of organics, and 87 tonnes of recyclables per day. The recyclable fraction was dominated by cardboard and plastics, with metals and glass contributing smaller but valuable shares. These findings highlight significant recovery potential but reveal the absence of sorting facilities, inadequate infrastructure, and reliance on open dumping. Per capita waste generation was estimated at 0.38 kg/person/day, higher than Sub-Saharan averages but below global benchmarks, reflecting Bosaso’s role as a commercial and port hub. Conclusions Bosaso’s system manages large waste volumes but lacks recovery infrastructure, creating governance and economic challenges. Immediate priorities include source segregation trials, improved landfill management, and neighborhood recycling hubs . Medium-term actions should establish composting and biogas facilities, while long-term strategies require integrated waste management systems and public–private investment . By providing a verified baseline, this study enables evidence-based planning and positions Bosaso to pursue climate-resilient urban management and donor engagement.