By: Ben TC Brooks |River Gee County Correspondent
Fish-Town, River Gee County-Saturday, June 7, 2025 – The River Gee Chapter of the Liberia National Red Cross Society, alongside the Fish-Town City Authority, has conducted a clean-up exercise in Fish-Town to mark World Environmental Day.
The exercise highlighted the importance of preserving the environment by bringing together local residents, volunteers, and officials, all working towards fostering a cleaner and healthier community.
World Environmental Day is globally celebrated on June 5each year to bring attention to pressing environmental issues and promotes sustainability. It started in 1973 and is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Over the years, the day has become symbolic of efforts related to safeguarding our environment, and millions of people around the world participate in the festivities to raise environmental awareness.
This year’s theme was “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
The clean-up began early Thursday morning, as volunteers gathered on the main streets of River Gee’s capital, equipped with gloves, brooms, wheelbarrows, and trash bags, determined to improve sanitation in Fish-Town.
The collaboration not only stress community participation, but also served as a platform for educating residents about the effects of waste and the importance of a clean environment.
Mariam Wahsaway Kparngbah, Field Coordinator, River Gee Chapter of the Liberia National Red Cross Society, highlighted the organization’s dedication to blending humanitarian efforts with environmental initiatives.
“We are not just cleaning today; we are raising awareness,” said Kparngbah. “Our goal is to help people understand how their actions affect both our community and the planet. Through these clean-up initiatives, we hope to inspire residents to embrace sustainable practices in their everyday lives.”
Fish-Town City Mayor, Wlehplue Bartee participated.in the event, reaffirming the city authority’s commitment to maintaining a vibrant and sustainable Fish Town.
He said, “Clean environments enhance health, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life and encouraged citizens to continue their efforts beyond just this day.”
The clean-up activity also included educational sessions led by local environmental advocates. They emphasized the importance of waste management, recycling and protecting local ecosystems, particularly in light of increasing urbanization and climate change.
Schoolchildren eagerly joined in, learning about the impacts of pollution and ways they can engage in environmental protection from an early age.
The event garnered widespread support, with local business owners and youth coming together. Many expressed strong desire for more frequent clean-up events and environmental education programs in the future, demonstrating a collective commitment to enhance the local environment.
Organizers hinted at future collaborations aimed at further raising awareness and encouraging sustainable practices in Fish Town.
This clean-up effort, supported by the River Gee Chapter of the Liberia National Red Cross Society and the City Authority, serves as a reminder of the impact individuals and community members can have in tackling environmental challenges.
Edited by Esau J. Farr |Sub-Editor
