By Kadiatu A. Turay
In a dynamic effort to combat persistent flooding and environmental challenges, the Freetown City Council (FCC) has launched an ambitious community clean-up initiative, mobilizing over 500 local youths to clear gutters and waterways throughout the city, this program, which began last weekend, aligns with the council’s comprehensive environmental management strategy to reduce flood risks, curb waterborne diseases, and enhance public hygiene during Sierra Leone’s rainy season.
The clean-up campaign was inaugurated in Kroo Bay, one of Freetown’s most flood-prone areas, with Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr leading the charge, the mayor, a champion of urban renewal and environmental sustainability, emphasized the critical need for collective action.
Blocked gutters and waterways have caused devastating floods that destroy homes, livelihoods, and lives, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr stated at the launch. “By engaging our youth and communities, we are fostering a cleaner, safer, and more resilient Freetown.”
The initiative has galvanized young people from diverse wards across the city. Armed with shovels, wheelbarrows, gloves, and masks, these volunteers are not only clearing debris but also gaining hands-on experience in waste management and civic responsibility, the FCC is providing stipends to participants, offering short-term employment opportunities while cultivating environmental stewardship.
Musa Kanu, a volunteer from Freetown’s East End, expressed his enthusiasm, I used to complain about the filthy gutters in my neighborhood, Now, I’m proud to be part of the solution, this is our city, and we must protect it.
The program’s success stems from partnerships with local councils, youth groups, market women’s associations, and community leaders. Religious and traditional figures have also rallied behind the initiative, framing cleanliness as a moral and civic duty.
Imam Alhaji Mohamed Jalloh of Congo Cross Mosque underscored this during a sermon: Cleanliness is integral to our faith. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us that removing harm from public spaces is an act of charity, let us support the FCC’s efforts.
Madam Aminata Sesay, chairlady of the Kroo Bay Market Women’s association, highlighted the role of market traders, we must stop disposing of waste improperly. Without adequate dustbins, plastic and debris end up in gutters, we’re committed to working with the council for a cleaner Freetown.
Environmental experts have praised the initiative, noting its impact on public health. Dr. Samuel Conteh, an environmental scientist, explained: Clogged gutters create stagnant water, breeding grounds for mosquitoes that spread malaria and dengue. Floodwaters also carry diseases like cholera and typhoid, this clean-up is a vital step toward safeguarding lives.
While the initiative has been widely praised, some residents advocate for long-term waste management solutions. Josephine Kargbo, a Wellington resident, voiced a common concern, cleaning gutters is important, but without regular garbage collection and more dustbins, waste will keep accumulating in waterways.
In response, FCC’s Environmental Services Manager, Alfred Bangura, outlined future plans: We’re not just clearing drains; we’re building a culture of environmental accountability. The next phase includes expanding waste collection points, installing more bins, and launching awareness campaigns in schools and communities.
As the clean-up continues over the coming weeks, local councillors aim to expand the model citywide. Councillor Mariatu Kamara of Ward 390 emphasized the role of youth, when young people lead community efforts, sustainable change follows. This initiative is about creating a cleaner Freetown today and inspiring the next generation to maintain it.
With shovels in hand and community spirit in abundance, Freetown’s residents, leaders, and youth are uniting to build a safer, healthier, and more resilient city one gutter at a time.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday,25th July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
