Breaking Barriers, Building Opportunities: Gender Inclusivity in Circular Economy Practices within Solid Waste Management in Tamale Metropolis

Abubakari Imoro Ibrahim; Wilhemina  Asare; Ebenezer Owusu-Sekyere

doi:10.55845/jos-2026-21111

Authors

Abubakari Imoro Ibrahim University for Development Studies, Tamale
Wilhemina Asare University for Development Studies, Tamale
Ebenezer Owusu-Sekyere University for Development Studies, Tamale

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55845/jos-2026-21111

Keywords:

Circular Economy, Solid Waste Management, Gender Inclusivity, Cultural Norms, Community Engagement

Abstract

Solid Waste Management (SWM) remains a critical urban challenge in Ghana, where integrating Circular Economy (CE) practices is increasingly recognised as a pathway to sustainability. This study examined the opportunities and barriers to gender inclusivity in CE practices within SWM in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with institutional actors such as Zoomlion, STARRY WASTE, and the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly. Quantitative results revealed that equal access to training and education (mean score 4.28) and awareness campaigns (4.27) were the most significant opportunities fostering inclusivity, while cultural norms (mean score 4.06) and unequal decision-making power (4.01) emerged as major barriers. Independent samples t-tests further showed significant gender differences in perceptions of cultural norms (p < 0.05), underscoring their influence on participation. Qualitative insights highlighted how entrenched stereotypes confine women to household-level waste roles and discourage men from engaging in perceived “feminine” CE tasks. Overall, the study found that gender inclusivity in Circular Economy practices within Tamale’s Solid Waste Management is shaped by socio-cultural and structural factors. Equal access to education and training, awareness campaigns, and community engagement were key enablers, while cultural norms, stereotypes, and unequal decision-making limited participation. To enhance inclusivity, the study recommends promoting gender-sensitive training, challenging restrictive cultural norms, ensuring equal access to resources, and strengthening policies that support women’s participation and leadership in waste management.

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Author Biographies

Abubakari Imoro Ibrahim, University for Development Studies, Tamale

Department of Environment and Sustainability Sciences
Wilhemina Asare, University for Development Studies, Tamale

Department of Environment and Sustainability Sciences
Ebenezer Owusu-Sekyere, University for Development Studies, Tamale

Department of Environment and Sustainability Sciences

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