Residents of Goreangab in Samora Machel Constituency joined a clean-up campaign led by the Tukwatha Youth Organisation, aiming to help Windhoek reclaim its status as the world’s cleanest city.

The campaign, supported by the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), the City of Windhoek (CoW), and other stakeholders, focused on tackling plastic pollution.

EIF CEO Benedict Libanda highlighted global concerns over plastic waste and outlined initiatives to promote recycling.

"We’ve introduced environmental taxes on plastic bags and are designing programs to make plastic a valuable commodity. We’re working with the City of Windhoek to reward people who bring waste to recycling centers with small fees," he said.

The CoW is urging the public to take recyclables to the Waste Buy-Back Centre on Hans Dietrich-Genscher Street. The project aims to reduce waste, mitigate environmental harm, and create jobs.

Lydia Amutenya, CoW’s Head of Corporate Communications, emphasized the shift in perspective.

"In the City of Windhoek, we no longer see waste, we see money. When you take recyclables to the center, you’re paid immediately. This initiative, along with our ‘Catching Them Young’ program, is helping reduce waste in the city."

The ‘Catching Them Young’ program educates learners on environmental responsibility from an early age.

Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi stressed the broader benefits of a clean community.

"Charity starts at home. Clean your yards, avoid littering, and remember, plastic is now money. Don’t throw it away; earn from it, as Mr. Libanda does."