HEALTH EFFECTS OF THE GBALAHI LANDFILL SITE ON THE RESIDENTS

Abstract

Urbanization and exponential population growth have led to a large quantum of waste generation which is sent to the landfill site where they are inappropriately managed as a result of inadequate funding, old and frequently broken-down equipment and workers with poor technical skill resulting in aesthetic environmental conditions in the landfill site at Gbalahi. The population living close to the landfill site is exposed to various forms of diseases which adversely affect their health. This study therefore aimed at investigating the health effects of the landfill site on the people of Gbalahi. The study design adopted for this study was a cross sectional and mix method approach was employed in conducting this study. Survey questionnaire was the sole quantitative tool for data collection whiles key informant interview guide, focus group discussion guide as well as observation checklist were the tools used for the qualitative data collection. 150 participants took part in the study. The study revealed that those living very close to the landfill site suffered from all kind of morbidities. It also revealed that water bodies in the area are constantly contaminated leading to outbreak of diseases in the area. The most common diseases reported were malaria, cholera, diarrhea, respiratory infections and typhoid. The study concluded that the people in the area are suffering and their health situation is deteriorating daily. Its therefore recommended that the Tamale metropolitan Assembly should come to their aid by providing them with quality drinking water, the Ghana Health Service should also help in conducting periodic health screening for the people and also for long term development plan, the Tamale metropolis should try to relocate the people or relocate the landfill site so that people will be far from its effects.