By Admore Mbonda, Kariba
In a remarkable display of community spirit and environmental responsibility, the National Environment Clean-Up Day initiative, launched by President Mnangagwa, gathered momentum once again in Kariba.
This month, the Kariba Publicity Association spearheaded a clean-up campaign at Antelope Island, engaging various local tourism players, schools, and community members in a robust effort to restore the beauty of Lake Kariba.
Sponsored by Washington Makulumo, director of Sunset Safaris, an 80-seater cruise boat was employed to transport participants to the island, where volunteers collected discarded trash, including tangled fishing nets and plastic drink containers.
The initiative is part of the President’s vision, declared on December 5, 2018, which establishes the first Friday of every month as National Environment Cleaning Day.
Mavis Mugwambi, a local tourism player from Untamed Trail, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative:
“It’s essential for us as tourism operators to not only showcase the beauty of our natural environment but actively participate in preserving it. Such initiatives reflect our commitment to sustainable tourism practices.”
The campaign saw participation from a variety of organizations, including Safecan Holdings, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, and local schools. Deputy Mayor Councillor Tendai Mapondera underscored the importance of these efforts:
“Cleanliness is not just a personal responsibility; it’s a civic duty. Events like these foster teamwork and a sense of community pride, essential for our town’s image and the tourism industry.”
The clean-up started early at Antelope Island, where volunteers diligently worked together, demonstrating the community’s dedication to maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Anwel Bepe, from the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists’ Kariba chapter, remarked, “This is not just about a clean environment; it’s about fostering a culture of stewardship amongst ourselves and the generations to come.”
President Mnangagwa’s initiative remains a call to action for all citizens to contribute towards maintaining a clean and sustainable environment, emphasizing that between 8 AM and 10 AM on the first Friday of every month, every individual has the power to make a difference.
With community-led efforts and stakeholder collaboration, Kariba is set to shine as a pristine tourist destination, appealing to both locals and visitors alike.
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