In an inspiring initiative to clean up Blantyre, Deputy Mayor Jomo Osman led a diverse team through a street-cleaning operation from Maselema to the Shoprite roundabout. What unfolded during this event was nothing short of exceptional, not only because of the physical task at hand but the spirit of unity and responsibility that defined the day.
The clean-up crew consisted of the Deputy Mayor himself, street-connected children, staff from Project M, Blantyre City Council employees, and volunteers from various communities. The sight of street-connected kids working hand in hand with city officials and ordinary citizens was a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility we all share to maintain our environment. The theme, “Our Streets, Our Duty,” resonated throughout the event, with Deputy Mayor Osman reinforcing the message that it’s every citizen’s duty to keep the city clean. He urged the team to ensure no litter was left behind, no matter how small.
One of the street-connected kids, Evance, shared his thoughts, expressing how frequent clean-ups could not only keep the city clean but also instill a sense of guilt in those who might otherwise litter. “When you see people working so hard to clean the streets, you think twice before throwing trash carelessly,” he said. His words echoed the importance of such initiatives in fostering civic responsibility.
A passerby who witnessed the effort remarked how much the city needed this clean-up, acknowledging that the “Our Streets, Our Duty” campaign could spark a shift in how people perceive their role in maintaining the streets. The Deputy Mayor’s tireless efforts were evident, as he stayed with the team from start to finish, ensuring every corner was cleared of waste.
Tamanda Ndawala, representing Project M, called on drivers and passengers to stop throwing trash from their vehicles, emphasizing that the streets belong to everyone. She urged the public to join the next clean-up, scheduled for October 24th, from the Shoprite roundabout to Queens roundabout. “It’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure our streets are clean,” she said, reinforcing the message of the campaign.
This clean-up was not just a one-time event; it was a call to action. Along with the Deputy Mayor, street-connected kids, and the Project M team, Blantyre residents are urged to join in the movement. It’s a step toward reclaiming our streets and cultivating pride in our shared spaces.
