JIMMA UNIVERSITY

JIMMA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

FACULTY OF CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF HYDRAULIC AND WATER RESOURCES
ENGINEERING
Tittle: improving wastewater management system for environmental sustainability a case
study of Jimma city

Student information
No Name Id
1 Yasin Mohammed Ru:1551/14
2 Latera Galana Ru:0832/14
3 Mubarek Shigute Ru:1609/14
4 Nejat Adem /add Ru:1638/15

Course research method and technical report writing /HWRE-4221

INSTRUCTOR Dr.-Ing Megersa K

Submission date: 20/12/2024

Table of Contents
1.INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 Background of study ......................................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Problem Statement............................................................................................................................ 2
2. Objectives................................................................................................................................................. 3
2.1 General Objective: ........................................................................................................................... 3
2.1.1 Specific Objectives: .................................................................................................................... 3
2.1.2 Significance of the Study .......................................................................................................... 3
3.Methodology ............................................................................................................................................. 4
3.1 Study Area ......................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Research Design ................................................................................................................................ 4
3.2.1 Data Collection Methods ........................................................................................................... 4
figure 2…jimma taxi station and awetu river .................................................................................. 5
figure 3 … merkato market center .................................................................................................... 6
3.3 Data Analysis ..................................................................................................................................... 7
3.3.1 Qualitative Analysis: .................................................................................................................. 7
4.Expected Outcomes .................................................................................................................................. 8
5. Timeline ................................................................................................................................................. 11
References .................................................................................................................................................. 12

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 1.INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of study

Wastewater management is a global challenge, particularly in developing countries where rapid

urbanization and population growth often outpace infrastructure development. In Ethiopia,

urban centers like Jimma City face significant challenges in managing wastewater effectively.
The lack of proper wastewater treatment systems leads to untreated sewage being discharged into
rivers and open areas, causing severe environmental degradation and posing risks to public
health. Jimma City, one of Ethiopia’s largest and fastest-growing cities, generates increasing
amounts of domestic and industrial wastewater. However, the city’s existing wastewater
infrastructure is insufficient to handle this volume, leading to contamination of water bodies like
the Awetu River. Effective wastewater management is crucial for environmental sustainability, as
it helps reduce pollution, conserve water resources, and improve the quality of life for residents.

1.2 Problem Statement

The current wastewater management system in Jimma City is inadequate and inefficient.
Untreated wastewater pollutes rivers, soil, and groundwater, disrupting ecosystems and
threatening public health.

Additionally, there is limited awareness among residents about the importance of wastewater

management and minimal efforts to reuse treated wastewater. These issues hinder the city’s

development and contribute to environmental degradation.

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 2. Objectives

2.1 General Objective:

To improve wastewater management systems in Jimma City to ensure environmental
sustainability and reduce pollution.

2.1.1 Specific Objectives:

 Assess the current state of wastewater management in Jimma City, including
infrastructure and practices.
 Identify the key environmental challenges caused by poor wastewater management.
 Propose practical, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions for wastewater treatment and
reuse.
 Raise awareness among community about the importance of proper wastewater
management.

2.1.2 Significance of the Study

This study is essential for several reasons:

 Environmental Protection: Proper wastewater management will reduce pollution in rivers

and soil,preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems.
 Public Health: Addressing untreated wastewater will minimize waterborne diseases and
imprve overall community health.
 Economic Benefits: Sustainable wastewater solutions, such as reuse for irrigation or
industrial purposes, can save costs and provide additional resources for the city.
 Policy Development: The findings will provide insights for policymakers to design and
implement better wastewater management strategies.
 Scalability: The proposed solutions can serve as a model for other cities in Ethiopia
facing similar challenges.

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 3.Methodology
3.1 Study Area
Location: Jimma City is situated in the Oromia Region of southwestern Ethiopia, approximately
352 km from Addis Ababa, the capital city.

Coordinates: Latitude 7°40′N and Longitude 36°50′E.

Topography: The city is located at an altitude of 1,780 meters above sea level, characterized by a
hilly landscape and fertile soils.

3.2 Research Design

This study adopts a qualitative research design to explore and understand the current wastewater
management practices in Jimma City. The qualitative approach focuses on gathering in-depth
insights through interviews and observations to identify challenges and propose sustainable
solutions.

3.2.1 Data Collection Methods

 Field Observations:

Conduct site visits to assess the condition of wastewater infrastructure, including drainage
systems septic tanks, and discharge points.

figure 1..merkato and front of awetu hospital

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figure 2…jimma taxi station and awetu river

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figure 3 … merkato market center

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  Interviews:

To understand the perspectives, challenges, and suggestions of key community involved in

wastewater management.

Conduct semi-structured interviews using open-ended questions to allow participants to freely

share their experiences and insights.

3.3 Data Analysis

3.3.1 Qualitative Analysis:
Use thematic analysis to interpret interview and questionnaire responses, identifying common

Challenges and community perspectives.

Based on the data analysis, the study will recommend practical and sustainable solutions:

 Technological Solutions: Introduce cost-effective wastewater treatment methods, such as

bio-digesters, constructed wetlands, and anaerobic ponds.

Propose decentralized treatment systems for areas lacking centralized infrastructure.

 Policy Recommendations: Advocate for stricter enforcement of wastewater discharge

regulations.

Recommend incentives for industries and households to adopt sustainable practices.

 Awareness Campaigns: Develop educational programs to inform residents about proper

wastewater disposal and the benefits of reuse.

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 4.Expected Outcomes

After studying this proposal research the following outcomes will be expected;

1. Identification of Key Challenges:

Analysis of the primary barriers to effective wastewater management,such as lack of

infrastructure, insufficient funding, and limited public awareness.

2. Assessment of the technical, institutional, and policy gaps hindering sustainable wastewater
management in Jimma City.

3.Proposed Sustainable Solutions

Development of practical, low-cost wastewater treatment technologies suitable for Jimma City,
such as constructed wetlands, bio-digesters, and decentralized systems.

Recommendations for wastewater reuse in agriculture, industry, or aquaculture to reduce water

scarcity and promote resource efficiency.

Strategies for improving drainage systems to reduce urban flooding and ensure proper
wastewater flow.

4.Policy and Institutional Recommendations

Recommendations for strengthening local policies and regulations on wastewater management,

including enforcement mechanisms.

Proposals for institutional reforms to improve coordination among community, such as

government agencies, private sector actors, and community organizations.

Guidelines for integrating wastewater management into Jimma City’s urban planning and
development strategies.

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5. Increased Public Awareness and Engagement

Enhanced awareness among residents about the importance of proper wastewater disposal and
management.

Educational materials or campaigns to promote community involvement in sustainable practices,

such as wastewater recycling and reuse.

Increased willingness among community to adopt and support proposed solutions.

6. Environmental and Health Benefits

Reduction in water pollution levels in the Awetu River and other affected areas, leading to
improved aquatic ecosystem health.

Mitigation of public health risks associated with untreated wastewater, such as waterborne
diseases.

Long-term improvement in the quality of life for residents of Jimma City through cleaner water
and a healthier environment.

7. Strategies for improving wastewater management (e.g., wastewater treatment and reuse)

Improving wastewater management requires a range of strategies that promote sustainable use of
water resources, protect public health, and support economic growth. Some of the strategies for
improving wastewater management include wastewater treatment, reuse, recycling, and resource
recovery.

Wastewater treatment is an essential strategy for improving wastewater management.

Wastewater treatment involves removing pollutants and contaminants from wastewater, making
it safe for disposal or reuse. Wastewater treatment plants use physical, chemical, and biological
processes to remove solids, organic matter, nutrients, and pathogens from wastewater, producing
treated effluent that meets quality standards. Treated wastewater can be discharged into rivers,
lakes, or oceans or used for irrigation, industrial processes, or energy production.

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Wastewater reuse is another effective strategy for improving wastewater management.
Wastewater reuse involves using treated wastewater for beneficial purposes such as irrigation,
industrial processes, or toilet flushing. Wastewater reuse reduces the demand for freshwater and
supports the sustainable use of water resources. In some regions, such as water-scarce regions or
regions with limited access to freshwater, wastewater reuse is an essential source of water
supply.

Recycling and resource recovery from wastewater is another innovative strategy for improving
wastewater management. Recycling and resource recovery involve recovering valuable resources
from wastewater, such as nutrients, energy, and biosolids. Nutrient recovery involves extracting
nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater and using them as fertilizers. Energy
recovery involves capturing biogas produced during wastewater treatment and using it for energy
production. Biosolids are the residual sludge generated during wastewater treatment and can be
used as fertilizers, soil conditioners, or energy sources. Recycling and resource recovery from
wastewater promote circular economy practices, reduce environmental impacts, and support
sustainable development.

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 5. Timeline

The study will be conducted over a period of 3 months with the following phases.

Phase Activity Duration

Phase 1: -Finalize research design prepare 1 week
preparation interview question and observation
checklist obtain necessary permission
from authorized bodies.
Phase 2: Data -Conduct semi structured interview with 4 weeks
collection community members perform field
observation of wastewater infrastructure
and pollution sites. finding through notes
and photographs
Phase 3:data -0rganize 0bservation notes and 3 week
organization and photographs
analysis -perform analysis to identify key pattern
Phase 4:solution -develop sustainable wastewater 2 week
development management solution based on findings.
-policy recommendation and infrastructure
improvement suggestion.
Phase 5: report -write final research report including 2 week
writing and finding recommendation and conclusion.
submission -finally submit the report

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References
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/wastewater-management

Bradley, Jonathan P, and Kevin T 2003. Environment & Urbanization. Decentralized wastewater
management in peri-urban areas in low-income countries, April 2003, 15 (1), 75-77

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