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Dozens of young volunteers gathered at Levuma Beach on Saturday, 15 August, to remove waste from the shoreline in a youth-led environmental cleanup focused on public health and coastal protection.
The activity, organized by the Leading Youthful Digital Innovative Artistry (LYDIA) Network, marked a delayed observance of International Youth Day and was held under the theme “Together for a Cleaner coast. Together for a Greener future.”
Organizers said the location was selected after a two-week assessment that identified Levuma Beach as a site facing significant environmental pressure from improper waste disposal.
LYDIA founder Lydia K. Tucker said the initiative was designed to combine youth engagement with community service. She said the beach was chosen because of its condition and the opportunity it provided to promote environmental responsibility alongside public health awareness.
Tucker added that the group is working with a National Authority for Sanitation and Environmental Protection (NASCA) expert to educate residents on better waste management practices and long-term environmental care.
Beyond cleanup activities, organizers emphasized behavior change as a key goal. Community and Advocacy Officer Mabinty Thoronka said the exercise was intended to encourage pride in the local environment while reinforcing the health risks linked to poor sanitation.
Volunteer Esther Fatu Jusu said her participation was driven by an interest in public health, adding that cleaning the beach also served as a way to raise awareness about pollution and its effects on coastal communities.
The LYDIA Network has continued to engage young people in environmental and public health initiatives, positioning itself as a platform for youth involvement in community development and climate-related action.
