Solid waste management practice is one of the essential and basic service delivery requirements that should exist in all places. The method(s) of handling, storage and processing solid waste at household is key and plays a significant role in public health, ensuring a safe environment and efficiency in dealing with municipal solid waste. This study sought to identify factors influencing waste management practices using an extensive literature review, field observations and a field study conducted in Joe Slovo West Township, as a case study. The study revealed that institutional, fiscal/economic, development, socio-economic and policy are the factors challenging existing solid waste management practices in Joe Slovo Township. Key recommendations include that the solid waste management system needs to be improved, that enhancing the ease of waste recycling as an economic activity and practice should be pursued, and that residents shoul