Environmental Noise Pollution and Perceived Health Outcomes among Residents of Mabwepande Ward, Kinondoni Municipal Council, Tanzania

Abstract

Objectives: To assess community awareness of noise pollution, examine self-reported health effects, identify major noise sources and disturbance periods, and document community-suggested strategies in Mabwepande Ward, Kinondoni, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Background: Environmental noise is a growing health concern in peri-urban communities where residential areas coexist with transportation routes, markets, and entertainment facilities. Although noise and health effects have been studied in Tanzania, local evidence on awareness, health effects, sources, and control measures remains limited.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study in Mabwepande Ward in August 2026 involved 100 participants via questionnaires, interviews, and observations, including household members, community leaders, health providers, and authorities. Data were analyzed with SPSS and Excel; qualitative data were summarized thematically.
Results: 96% of respondents knew about noise pollution, and 88% knew of its health effects. Night time was the most disturbed period (60%), followed by daytime (40%). Elders (61%) were seen as the most affected, followed by youth (24%) and children (15%). Common health effects included sleep disturbance (27%), headaches (21%), hearing loss (19%), stress and annoyance (16%), reduced concentration (10%), and mental health issues (7%). Daytime noise sources included motorcycles, vehicles, horns, traders, and customers; entertainment was a key night-time source. Suggested control measures included community education (19%), participation (17%), law enforcement (15%), and separating entertainment and markets from residences (13%).
Conclusion: Noise pollution is a significant issue in Mabwepande, caused by activities during both day and night. Addressing this requires environmental monitoring, community involvement, regulations, and land-use planning, especially in fast-growing peri-urban areas