National cleanup exercise mobilises joint services, citizens

The national cleanup exercise is once again bringing together citizens and state agencies in a unified push for a cleaner, healthier Guyana.

Activities were observed along the Sheriff Street/Mandela Avenue corridor, where Minister within the Ministry of Housing Vanessa Benn commended the growing participation from communities and frontline workers.

She noted visible improvements in areas such as Plaisance, attributing this to the ongoing efforts of local authorities and residents.

“This is a national effort… our police ranks, our soldiers, and our citizens are participating, and that is what is encouraging to me,” the minister stated.

Minister Benn also underscored the importance of responsible waste disposal and behavioural change, urging citizens to play their part in maintaining clean surroundings.

Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, highlighted the coordinated role of the Joint Services.

More than 200 ranks from the Guyana Defence Force have been deployed across Georgetown to support the initiative.

 “Clean air, clean environment means better health for everyone… it is important for citizens to help in a preventative way and discourage littering,” Brigadier Khan explained.

It is important to note that the exercise is not only about immediate cleanup. It is about fostering long-term habits that promote public health, environmental protection, and national pride.

The coordinated operation saw participation from the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, Men on Mission and other government agencies working alongside civilians to clear key corridors around the city.