By Linus Flomo
The City Government of Monrovia the MCC has initiated a comprehensive clean-up campaign across Monrovia and surrounding areas, aiming to enhance civic pride and improve public health.
During the weekend MCC Sanitation team led an extensive operation, clearing large quantities of waste from key areas in central Monrovia.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage residents to take an active role in maintaining the cleanliness and appeal of their neighborhoods.
Speaking at the campaign’s launch, MCC Director General for Sanitation, Success Harris urged property owners and businesses to take advantage of the community-based enterprises (CBEs) and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) authorized by the MCC for waste collection and disposal.
He emphasized the importance of proper waste management, advising companies to regularly place their waste in designated baskets for collection.
“We will assist the CBEs and SMEs in collaborating with the Montserrado local government to ensure waste is collected and disposed of efficiently,” said Harris.
He stressed that the clean-up operations will continue daily, both day and night, to keep Monrovia on par with other nations in terms of cleanliness.
However, Harris expressed frustration that some residents quickly revert to littering after clean-ups, undermining the efforts.
The Director General for City Planning, Boye Arab Robertson, highlighted the importance of adhering to city regulations, particularly regarding the illegal use of sidewalks and streets as garages.
He warned that those found in violation would face fines, reinforcing the city’s commitment to maintaining order and cleanliness.
The Director of Community Services, Doris W. Fahngon, outlined plans for door-to-door and street-to-street community engagement to promote safe garbage disposal practices.
The campaign will focus on educating women and children, who are often responsible for household waste, about the importance of proper waste management.
Fahngon urged parents to ensure their waste is handled by licensed CBEs and SMEs rather than children.
“Our goal is to clean cities and reduce pollution through involvement and education,” Fahngon said. “By teaching the community about ecological practices and resources, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving our city and its environment.”
The MCC’s new approach signals a determined effort to transform Monrovia into a cleaner, healthier city, relying on the active participation of its residents.
Meanwhile, relatedly, the MCC has ushered in a new leadership team for the Monrovia City Police, signaling a new era of professionalism and reform within the force.
In a ceremony held on Friday at UN Drive, Mayor John-Charuk Siafa introduced the newly appointed officers Col. Amos Alphonso Paypay as Director of the Monrovia City Police, Col. Kpanry L. Cole as Deputy Director for Operations, and Devine Shammah as Deputy Director for Administration.
Mayor Siafa emphasized his commitment to restructuring the Monrovia City Police, aiming to transform it into a more professional and reputable institution. “Reform is a process,” the mayor remarked, “and our officers will undergo thorough screening by security professionals with the necessary training.”
The mayor announced ongoing collaboration with the Liberia National Police (LNP), particularly with Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman, through MCC Senior Advisor on Public Safety, Cllr. Christopher Clarence Massiquoi.
This partnership is central to the reform efforts, with Col. Coleman playing a key role in rebranding the city police.
Mayor Siafa also commended outgoing City Police Director, Col. Thomas Garwo, who will now serve as a senior technical advisor on safety. Garwo, a former LNP officer and certified firearms trainer, expressed his gratitude for the new role, asserting his continued loyalty and dedication to serving the country. “A military man never leaves the barracks,” he said, reaffirming his commitment.
The newly appointed Director, Col. Amos Alphonso Paypay, pledged to bring change, value, and integrity to the city police. “We want the public to know that the Monrovia City Police has transformed into a more professional organization,” he stated, highlighting the importance of the ongoing reforms.
Col. Kpanry L. Cole, the new Deputy Director for Operations, echoed these sentiments, promising increased professionalism, discipline, and a stronger focus on public safety.
He assured citizens that the Monrovia City Police would work closely with the LNP and other security bodies to ensure seamless collaboration and unity in safeguarding the city.
Col. Cole urged his colleagues to support the new administration in improving Liberia’s security landscape. “We are not here to chase anyone away but to do a professional job with discipline, unity, and integrity,” he affirmed.
