Perceived health risk associated with living in close proximity to waste disposal site: The case of Dompoase landfill, Kumasi

Many countries in Africa have poor solid waste management systems, which pose health risks to people living in close proximity. This study aimed to map the boundaries of the Dompoase landfill site in Kumasi, conduct proximity analysis using a geographic information system (GIS), and investigate perceived health risks associated with living nearby. A total of 400 questionnaires were randomly administered to residents of Kuwait, Adagya, Aprabon, and Sokoban. Chi-square analysis was used to examine associations among variables. Ring buffering in ArcGIS geoprocessing tools determined household and institutional proximity to the landfill. Overall, 92.8% of respondents perceived health risks from living near the landfill. Of these, 14.5% reported very high exposure, 34.8% high, 21.8% moderate, 20.8% little, and 8.3% no risk. Age, duration of stay, and the landfill’s environmental and social impacts significantly influenced perceived risk levels. The study identified 1,271 households and 6 institutions located within a 500 m buffer zone of the landfill. Findings indicate that household density increases with distance from the landfill. The study concludes that the Dompoase landfill is poorly sited and does not conform to the Ghana landfill guidelines. It recommends that the appropriate authorities enforce existing guidelines to safeguard public health and promote sustainable waste management.