This study assesses the factors affecting the sustainability of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs).It is motivated by the fact that Tanzania through Vice- President’s Office-Division of Environment is in the process of establishing three Pilot MRFs as part of Open Burning Project. However, there has never been adequate studies to inform on necessary factors for MRFs sustainability. The study conducted in Ilala city, and Kigamboni and Ubungo municipalities. The choice of study area based on existence of MRF in Ilala city and proposed MRFs in Kigamboni and Ubungo municipalities. The study variables include SWM administration; waste collection services and segregation practices; reliable market for the recyclables waste; waste characterization; land availability; technology and human resources; financial viability; legal framework; community economic status and awareness level. Interviews, different types of observations, and documentary review formed the research data collection techniques. The study used descriptive analyses for its variable analysis. The findings show that there is supportive legal framework; enough and right waste composition; reliable land; and economic viability for the MRFs establishment. Parallel to that, the study areas found with ineffective SWM administration; inadequate waste characterization studies, segregation practices, human skills and community awareness. Further, there were untapped waste market potential, poor technological application and moderate waste collection services. To this end the study recommends; setting attractive prices for the recyclables in the MRFs; incentivising communities to use the MRFs; Intensifying community Awareness campaigns on the use of MRFs; and application of Public Private Partnership model in operating the MRFs.

Keywords : MRFs, Material Recovery Facilities, Sustainability, Solid Waste Management, Recycling, and Tanzania.