By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and community stakeholders, has launched a large-scale environmental clean-up campaign across Lungi Township as preparations gather pace for the forthcoming ECOWAS Summit of Heads of State and Government.
The exercise is aimed at improving sanitation, enhancing public safety, and presenting a clean and welcoming environment for regional leaders and international delegates expected to attend the high-profile summit.
More than 150 Sierra Leone Police recruits were deployed to support the operation, carrying out extensive cleaning activities at the Freetown International Airport and other strategic locations across Lungi Township. The exercise forms part of a broader national effort to ensure that key entry points and public spaces meet the standards expected for an international event of such significance.
The recruits were officially received by the Local Unit Commander of the Lungi Police Division, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Augustine Momoh Kamara, and the Local Unit Commander of the Anvil/Airport Police Division, CSP Mohamed Kugba Allieu, who are jointly coordinating the operation.
Working side by side with officers of the Sierra Leone Police and members of the local community, personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces undertook a comprehensive clean-up exercise that included clearing overgrown vegetation, removing refuse, sweeping streets, cleaning drainage systems, and sanitising public spaces within and around Lungi Township.
The initiative highlights the growing partnership between the country’s security institutions and local communities in promoting environmental sanitation while ensuring the host community is fully prepared for the arrival of regional dignitaries.
Speaking during the exercise, the police commanders praised the dedication and discipline demonstrated by the police recruits, military personnel, and community volunteers. They described the campaign as an important contribution to the successful hosting of the ECOWAS Summit and commended all participants for their spirit of teamwork and patriotism.
They stressed that environmental cleanliness is not only vital for protecting public health but also plays a key role in strengthening security, creating a healthy living environment, and projecting a positive image of Sierra Leone to visiting Heads of State, government officials, and international guests.
The commanders further reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Sierra Leone Police and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces to working closely with partner institutions, local authorities, and community stakeholders to ensure that Lungi and other strategic locations remain safe, clean, and welcoming throughout the duration of the ECOWAS Summit.
Residents who joined the exercise welcomed the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of national unity and shared responsibility. They encouraged members of the public to maintain the cleanliness achieved during the campaign and continue supporting efforts to keep their communities environmentally friendly.
As Sierra Leone prepares to host one of the region’s most important diplomatic gatherings, the ongoing clean-up campaign underscores the country’s commitment to excellence, hospitality, and effective collaboration in delivering a successful ECOWAS Summit.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 15th July 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
