By Bill W. Cooper
President-elect, Joseph Boakai, has set his sights on a much-needed initiative to clean up the capital city of Monrovia and its environs, ahead of his landmark inauguration.
Boakai, as part of ARREST platform of Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation and Tourism, said his objective is to tackle the longstanding issue of filth and waste management across the country’s capital.
This, he said, is also intended to improve the lives of the citizens and create a positive first impression for his administration, upon the arrival of several international diplomats and other Heads of States.
Monrovia, Liberia’s largest city, has long struggled with inadequate waste disposal systems, leading to a buildup of garbage and a poor living environment for its residents, as the situation has further deteriorated under the stewardship of Jefferson Koijee.
With his inauguration fast approaching, President-elect Boakai recognizes the significance of starting his tenure on a clean slate, by tackling the long-standing garbage nightmare.
Speaking to newsmen recently, Boakai called on all Liberians to join efforts in the clearing of all streets across Monrovia, disclosing that a clean and well-maintained city not only promotes a healthier pleasing environment, but also attracts investment and tourism, which are essential for economic growth and development.
He also disclosed that in the coming days, a specialized committee will be setup to embark on the process, as well as mobilize a task force consisting of all Liberians and community leaders.
According to him, the diverse group will work together to craft a comprehensive waste management strategy that includes enhanced waste collection, cleaning of various environments, and public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about their responsibility in maintaining a clean city.
He maintained that his administration will also prioritize the establishment of proper waste disposal infrastructure, such as waste treatment plants and recycling facilities, to ensure the sustainable management of waste in Monrovia and the country at large.
“I will engage the local communities in this endeavor. Through community empowerment and education programs, the committee will mobilize the residents to take ownership of their neighborhoods and actively participate in keeping them clean,” he noted.
According to him, there is also an important need of improving sanitation facilities, especially in underserved areas, coupled with clean water and proper sanitation, which, he said, is a basic human right and crucial for preventing the spread of diseases.
Meanwhile, many Liberians spoken to, have said the President-elect’s commitment to cleaning up Monrovia exemplifies his dedication to transforming Liberia into a clean, green, and thriving environment.
According to them, by prioritizing waste management, sanitation, and community involvement, his administration will be on the record of creating a sustainable and healthy environment that will pave the way for social and economic progress.
They noted that the success of such initiative will not only benefit the citizens of Monrovia, but also set a precedent for other cities in Liberia and beyond, and added that his proactive approach should inspire other leaders to prioritize environmental sustainability and recognize the crucial role it plays in improving overall quality of life.
