Labasa settlement residents promote waste management drive

While many Fijians used the Girmit public holiday last week for leisure and relaxation, residents of Eniketi Settlement in Labasa took part in a clean-up campaign.

Macuata Provincial Council conservation officer Vasiti Vosabalavu, a resident of Vunivau, led awareness activities on the importance of waste management.

Ms Vosabalavu said the clean-up aimed to promote cleanliness, improve waste management and reduce the risk of waterborne diseases caused by stagnant water.

“We engaged with the women’s group and other Eniketi residents, and this will continue as a regular campaign,” Ms Vosabalavu said.

Although the settlement falls outside the Labasa Town boundary for garbage collection services, residents continued efforts to clean and beautify the area while carrying out proper waste management practices.

Area spokesperson Alan Tuinasoni said the collaboration with the provincial council’s conservation staff was timely.

Mr Tuinasoni said iTaukei villages and communities must lead by example by maintaining cleaner compounds, drains and waterways, as well as vegetation along road networks.

“When we instil this mindset of cleaner surroundings in the younger generation, they will continue to participate and one day lead by example,” he said.