The department of primary health care services (DPHCS) in collaboration with the Gaborone city council recently co-hosted the commemoration of the National clean up the world campaign in Gaborone. The focus was to inspire and empower communities to clean up and conserve the environment, thus reducing the adverse effects of climate change.

The clean up the world campaign is held in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) every year on the third weekend of September. The theme “Our place...Our Planet...Our Responsibility”, is a fitting theme as it brings the focus on us people as agents of change to play the role of looking after our environment by cleaning up, planting trees recycling and conducting awareness campaigns, remarked WHO representative, Dr. Eugene Nyarko.

Outlining the objectives of the day, DPHCS Acting Director, Mr. Ludick availed that raising awareness on environmental issues is paramount. He added that they wanted to inspire and empower the communities to take responsibility of the environment they live in by cleaning up. The other objective was to bring stakeholders together through positive programs and activities that can improve the local environment. The director however reminded the attendants that clean up should not be a once-off event but sustained for desired results.
 

Dr. Eugene Nyarko noted that during this period the world over, cleaning activities are abound adding that Botswana is no exception.  “We could do likewise and educate other on the dangers of burning garbage, waste, and negative effects of deforestation due to firewood harvesting.  Others include promotion of reforestation through tree planting, recycling of cans and litter picking across the country. He said it is “our responsibility as custodians of the planet to conserve and promote sustainable use and hand over a healthy and productive natural world to the next generation.”

Still on the climate change issue Dr. Nyarko appraised the audience on the just ended COP-17, Durban conference that there is likelihood to convene climate change Pitso. This will be to engage stakeholders on the evidence, agreements and action items agreed upon there, saying this would help Botswana crystallize her own plans and strategies to address issues around climate change. 

Furthermore, he pledged and reaffirmed the UN support to government and stakeholders efforts in this regard.
The Mayor for Gaborone Mr Haskins Nkaigwa appealed to everyone to look after their environment. He emphasised that government cannot achieve this alone and that concerted efforts from all stakeholders are vital.