By Emmanuel Tobotinho Quiah
Monrovia-The Government of Liberia has officially launched its Presidential Clean Cities Initiative in Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County, marking a new effort to improve sanitation, strengthen waste management, and promote cleaner communities across the country.
The launching ceremony brought together local government officials, project representatives, community stakeholders, and other participants to formally introduce the initiative, which is being spearheaded by the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs.
A major highlight of the program is the selection of only two Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) out of 93 applicants for participation in Phase One of the initiative in Zwedru, reflecting a highly competitive selection process.
The initiative is designed to support sanitation activities, improve the management and disposal of waste, and encourage communities to take greater responsibility for maintaining clean and healthy surroundings.
During the ceremony, participants received an overview of the project, alongside a special message from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. A representative of the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs officially launched the initiative on behalf of the President.
Speaking at the event, Emmanuel S. Mars, Head of Secretariat and Project Manager, expressed appreciation to participants for their commitment and willingness to support efforts aimed at making Zwedru a cleaner and healthier city.
Mars emphasized the importance of community participation in achieving the objectives of the initiative, which seeks to make sanitation a shared responsibility rather than leaving the task solely to local authorities.
For her part, Zwedru City Mayor, Retha Kai Massaquoi, urged the successful applicants to demonstrate commitment, discipline, and accountability in carrying out their assigned responsibilities.
Mayor Massaquoi stressed that maintaining a clean city requires the collective efforts of residents, community organizations, and local authorities.
“Keeping Zwedru City clean requires everyone’s responsibility, not only the City Corporation,” Mayor Massaquoi emphasized.
She further expressed hope that the Presidential Clean Cities Initiative would grow into a sustainable national program capable of addressing sanitation challenges while creating meaningful employment opportunities for young people.
According to the mayor, the initiative presents an opportunity for young people to earn a living, support their families, and contribute toward the education and well-being of their children.
The launch of the initiative in Zwedru comes amid growing calls for improved sanitation and effective waste management in communities across Liberia.
With only two CBOs selected from the 93 applicants, expectations are high that the successful organizations will demonstrate transparency, dedication, and effective service delivery during the first phase of implementation.
The long-term success of the initiative, however, will depend on sustained government support, effective coordination, community participation, and the commitment of all stakeholders to keeping Zwedru clean.
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