By Takudziridzwa Nyama
Residents of Beitbridge rallied together today for an all-embracing clean-up campaign, responding to the initiative established by President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa in December 2018, which designates the first Friday of each month as National Clean-up Day.
From 8 AM to 10 AM, the campaign saw participation from various stakeholders, including Zimboarders, the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), the National AIDS Council (NAC), the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), TelOne, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS). The collective effort significantly reduced environmental pollution in the area, as residents came together to improve their community.
Speaking to a Ziyah News Network reporter, Regina Munyamani, the National Chair for the Community Action Group and Economic Development, emphasized the need for more waste management solutions.
“The City Council should provide bins throughout Beitbridge town to maintain a clean environment; the prevalence of litter indicates a shortage of bins. A clean environment is essential for our health and well-being. We can also promote recycling by collecting plastics, bottles, and cans, which can generate income,” she stated.
She further urged the City Council to carry out door-to-door campaigns to educate the community on waste management.
In response to these concerns, the Beitbridge Council’s Acting Spokesperson, Makwaiva, stated, “Efforts are being made to address the issue of the shortage of bins with the aim to place bins along the highway.”
Meanwhile, EMA Environmental Officer said, “We have laws in place, such as the National Environmental Management Act and local by-laws, to address waste management issues, and our local authorities and law enforcement agencies, including the police, are committed to enforcing these regulations. We will continue to support our National Clean-up Day initiative through educational channels like our Facebook page, WhatsApp channel, and local radio station.”
Today’s clean-up campaign demonstrates the residents’ commitment to maintaining a cleaner and healthier Beitbridge, fostering community spirit and promoting environmental accountability.