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The government of Sierra Leone, through a directive from State House, has announced the launch of a “Declutter Freetown” initiative, beginning today, February 13, 2025.
Myk Berewa, Director of Communication at State House, confirmed the news in a social media post.
The initiative aims to clear Freetown’s streets of makeshift shelters, garages, and unauthorized vehicles that have been left unattended. Berewa specifically warned individuals who have left vehicles unattended or erected makeshift structures along right-of-ways to prepare for the consequences of the initiative.
“The initiative to declutter Freetown is set to kick off shortly, aiming to tackle all makeshift shelters, garages and unauthorized vehicles scattered throughout the central business district,” Berewa stated in his post.
“With directives from the State House, the ‘Declutter Freetown’ initiative begins tomorrow. If you have left vehicles unattended or set up makeshift shelters & garages along the right of ways, brace for the consequences!”
It is widely acknowledged that many streets in Freetown have been improperly utilized, creating difficulties for both vehicles and pedestrians. This initiative seeks to address these issues and improve accessibility throughout the city.
The Declutter Freetown Initiative by the State House of Sierra Leone is a long-overdue directive that many of us who genuinely care about the cleanliness and orderliness of our city have been waiting for. Freetown has suffered from congestion, street trading, noise pollution, and poor waste management for far too long, making this move both necessary and commendable.
However, this initiative should not stop at just removing illegal structures. The Freetown City Council must go further by tackling the deeper issues affecting our city’s cleanliness and organization. Illegal settlements, uncontrolled street trading, and noise pollution are persistent problems that require long-term, sustainable solutions.
A cleaner, more organized Freetown is possible, but it requires consistent enforcement, community involvement, and proper urban planning. This directive is a great start, but to truly reclaim our city, we need a comprehensive and sustained effort from both government authorities and citizens alike.