Pilot Testing of a Digital Waste Collection Recording System in Alotau, PNG(J-PRISM 3)
［Goal 6］ Clean Water and Sanitation
［Goal 11］ Sustainable Cities and Communities
2026.07.20
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Under the Japanese Technical Cooperation Project for Promotion of Regional Initiative Phase 3 (J-PRISM 3) a QR/Kobo-based Business Information Confirmation and Collection Service Record Trial was conducted in Alotau, PNG on 6th to 7th July 2026
The training aimed to support the Alotau Urban Local Level Government (AULLG) in piloting a simple digital system for waste collection management that will enable waste collection workers to verify business information and record collection status and photos using smartphones. The QR codes and Kobo, is a smartphone-based data collection tool that can be used offline, and AULLG waste collection workers can confirm business information and record collection status and photos in the field. The recorded data also enables managers to verify collection records, identify collection-related issues, and take appropriate follow-up actions.
The training was conducted with participation from the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), which shared its experiences in waste collection improvement and data-based management.
A waste collector scanning a QR code and recording collection data using Kobo.
On 6th July, participants reviewed the objectives of the trial, discussed AULLG’s financial and waste management challenges, learned from NCDC’s experience, and conducted hands-on practice using the QR/Kobo tools. On 7th July, participants conducted field practice at 10 selected businesses, followed by data verification and discussions on potential improvement.
Participants discussing the usefulness of the QRKobo tools and potential improvements after field practice.
The trial demonstrated the potential of the system to improve field collection and recordkeeping, visualize service coverage, strengthen fee collection and payment follow-up, and support future cost recovery efforts.
NCDC also gave positive feedback on the approach, noting its potential application in POM and for wider sharing with other local governments across PNG if the pilot is successful.
JICA continues to support PNG's efforts to maintain clean, healthy, and sustainable cities and towns.
For more information on J-PRISM 3: https://www.sprep.org/j-prism-iii
https://www.jica.go.jp/oda/project/202004886/en_news/index.html
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