Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GWANDA Mayor Alderman Thulani Moyo has called on residents to embrace a culture of cleanliness and environmental stewardship as part of efforts to build a clean, safe and healthy town.
Speaking during the first Presidential Clean-Up Campaign of the year, held in Ward 1, Gwanda Urban, Alderman Moyo said a clean environment was critical in attracting investment and improving residents’ quality of life.
The event was attended by members of the security forces, Government departments, residents and other stakeholders.
“As we start a new year, let us adopt a culture of cleanliness and take ownership of our environment, as its condition has a direct impact on our well-being and livelihoods. A dirty environment leads to disease, and when people are ill, productivity is affected,” said Alderman Moyo.
He added that environmental neglect could cost the town potential investors.
“If our town is dirty, we risk losing investment opportunities. His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo (a nation is built by its owners). As we begin this year, let us build our town through cleanliness. Desist from littering and adopt proper waste management practices for better outcomes. In doing so, we will be building our community,” he said.
Alderman Moyo also urged stakeholders to participate consistently in the clean-up campaign, which is an initiative spearheaded by President Mnangagwa.
Also speaking at the event, Gwanda Municipality Town Clerk Ms Priscillah Nkala called on residents, particularly business operators, to maintain cleanliness around their premises.
She expressed concern over rampant littering in shopping centres, including areas where food is prepared and sold.
Ms Nkala urged members of the business community to take responsibility for keeping their places of operation clean in order to safeguard public health.
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Bongani Moyo