Factors Affecting Service Delivery by Solid Waste Collecting Firms Under a Public Private Partnership Arrangement in Nairobi City County

Abstract

This study evaluated the factors influencing service delivery by solid waste collecting firms operating under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement in Kenya, with a specific focus on Nairobi City County. While some research has been conducted on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in solid waste management, limited studies have explored their impact on service delivery in Kenya. The study was grounded in the recognition that, while the public sector was responsible for providing solid waste collection services, budgetary constraints had led to a reliance on private sector participation through public-private partnerships (PPPs). Despite this engagement, service delivery remained suboptimal, with issues such as scattered litter and poorly managed waste in many areas of Nairobi. The study was therefore guided by four objectives namely; assessing the relationship between the capacity of solid waste collection firms and service delivery within the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework in Kenya, establishing the relationship between procurement processes and service delivery by solid waste collection firms operating under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement in Kenya, assessing the relationship between public support and the service delivery of solid waste collection firms within a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework in Kenya, and examine the relationship between government policies and solid waste management service delivery by solid waste collection firms in a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement in Kenya. Descriptive research design was employed using a quantitative approach. Data was collected using the census method for the 57 solid collecting firms. Sampling method for residents of Nairobi City County, officials of the NCC, National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) officials, and PPP unit in the ministry where 384 respondents were selected. The questionnaire was used to gather primary data, which were then analyzed to draw conclusions and make recommendations. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, standard deviations, correlation, linear regression, and multiple regression analysis to test the relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable. The results indicated that all four independent variables significantly influenced service delivery, although to varying degrees. Partial correlation analysis further revealed that each independent variable had a moderate positive linear correlation with service delivery. The study concluded that effective waste management through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) necessitates a multifaceted approach. Firm capacity is essential as the operational base, but it must be supported by transparent governance and active community involvement. The integrity of procurement processes is critical to ensure that contracts are awarded based on merit. Public support is also significant, as it contributes to service sustainability. Moreover, government policies are vital in creating a conducive environment for waste management. The study recommends the need to enhance the capacity of private sector firms in solid waste collection by improving their financial resources, human resource capabilities, and the adoption of modern technology. It highlights the importance of refining the procurement process to ensure greater transparency. Furthermore, the study advocates increased public support to promote community participation in waste management decisions, fostering a sense of ownership. Lastly, it calls for government policies that create an enabling environment to support the efficiency and effectiveness of solid waste collectors.