1 Comment 
The Koidu New Sembehun City Council (KNSCC), under the leadership of Mayor Matthew Komba Sam, is facing growing criticism from residents and stakeholders for failing to effectively manage waste in the city’s central areas.
Koidu, the largest urban settlement in Kono District and the commercial hub of the diamond-rich region, generates large volumes of waste daily.
However, poor collection systems, inadequate disposal sites, and irregular cleaning schedules have turned key parts of the city into eyesores. Piles of uncollected garbage are now visible at major junctions, markets, and transport parks, raising questions about the council’s commitment to maintaining cleanliness.
The central business district, once considered the pride of the municipality, is particularly affected. Open drains are clogged with plastic bottles, food waste, and other non-biodegradable materials, causing foul odors and blocking waterways.
Traders, commuters, and visitors have expressed frustration over the unsanitary conditions, which pose serious risks to public health. Experts warn that waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and diarrhea could spread easily in such an environment, especially in densely populated areas like Koidu’s central market.
Residents argue that the council, led by Mayor Komba Sam, has not prioritized waste management despite collecting market dues, business licenses, and local taxes that should support basic sanitation. Some allege that funds intended for waste collection are being mismanaged or diverted, leaving the burden of disposal to struggling community members.
Youths and civil society groups have repeatedly called for sustainable solutions, including the provision of dustbins, waste trucks, and regular community cleanup campaigns, but these appeals have often gone unanswered. Analysts say the failure to implement an effective waste management system reflects a deeper governance challenge within the KNSCC.
If urgent action is not taken, Koidu risks a full-blown environmental and public health crisis. The council is urged to develop a comprehensive waste management strategy that encourages community participation, partnerships with private waste collectors, and enforcement of sanitation by-laws. Public education on proper waste disposal is also crucial for lasting improvement.
A clean and healthy city will not only safeguard residents’ wellbeing but also attract investors, boost tourism, and restore civic pride. Koidu deserves better than to be choked by filth and Mayor Matthew Komba Sam must act decisively before the situation spirals further out of control.
The writer failed to work around the entire city for him to see the progress so far made in the collection of waste within the city. He falsely claimed that there is no disposal site. Please I advise him to do proper findings before publication. I consider his report as a well organized political manipulation and a malicious damage to Mayor’s future political ambition.
Please, kindly take a work through the length and breath of the entire city and see handwork of the Council. You guys only make news in the moment of challenges, but not when things are better visible.