Betpawa Sierra Leone, a leading betting company, on Saturday, 16th November 2024, undertook a massive cleanup exercise at the Lumley and Aberdeen beaches.
This initiative forms part of the company’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in supporting the government and people of Sierra Leone.
Speaking during the event, Madam Winnie Boyah, a representative of Betpawa Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of maintaining clean beaches, which serve as key tourist attractions in the country. She noted that dirty beaches could tarnish the country’s image and deter tourists.
“The cleaning of these beaches aligns with our commitment to partnering with the National Tourist Board to create a cleaner and healthier environment for all Sierra Leoneans,” she said.
Madam Boyah also highlighted the role of clean beaches in promoting health, recreation, and tourism. She assured that Betpawa would continue to prioritize beach cleanups to make Lumley and Aberdeen more appealing to tourists and locals alike.
Furthermore, she encouraged the public to take ownership of the beaches, emphasizing that maintaining a clean environment is everyone’s responsibility.
Betpawa, which was launched in Sierra Leone in March 2024, operates in 18 African countries and remains committed to making a positive impact in the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
On behalf of the National Tourist Board (NTB), the Public Relations Officer Mr. Kai Bockarie Saquee expressed gratitude to Betpawa for their timely intervention. He noted that partnerships like these are crucial for promoting sustainable tourism in Sierra Leone.
“We applaud Betpawa for joining the fight against waste and for supporting the development of tourism in the country,” he stated.
Mr. Saquee revealed that a recent NTB survey identified poor waste management as a significant challenge for communities along riverine areas. He noted that some residents and companies use the river and beaches as dumping sites, contributing to pollution. In response, the NTB has launched community outreach programs to educate the public on the environmental and health risks associated with improper waste disposal.
He called on other organizations to emulate Betpawa’s efforts in fostering sustainable tourism and environmental protection, stressing the need for collective action in preserving Sierra Leone’s natural assets.