Waste management in Kampala’s market districts is crucial for both environmental sustainability and livelihood improvement. The study employed a comparative design to assess waste management practices in three major market areas using structured interviews and document reviews. A significant proportion (56%) of respondents reported improvements in livelihoods due to better waste disposal, with notable reductions (30%) in environmental pollution. Waste management programmes have had a positive impact on both economic activities and environmental health in Kampala’s market districts. Further integration of sustainable waste management practices into urban planning is recommended for broader application. waste management, livelihood improvement, environmental sustainability, Kampala markets