Cleaner Streets, Stronger Community: Suva’s Wheelbarrow Boys Take Charge!

In a commendable initiative, the dedicated wheelbarrow boys of Suva have been instrumental in maintaining the orderliness and cleanliness of the Suva market area for over five years. Collaborating closely with the Suva City Council (SCC) and the Fiji Police Force (FPF), these young individuals step in to assist with waste management, particularly during times when council and police staff are stretched thin.

Jiuta Soko, the assistant vice president of the Suva Wheelbarrow Association, shared that these wheelbarrow boys often work late into the evenings, collecting and disposing of rubbish left by market vendors, for which they receive a nominal fee of $2 per table. This effort not only helps to keep the market clean but also alleviates some pressure from the formal waste management system, which has been under strain.

The initiative has proved beneficial, as Soko noted, “Sometimes, when the Suva City Council has a shortage of staff, some of our wheelbarrow boys would collaborate with the council in terms of collecting rubbish at the market area.” Their assistance extends to controlling crowds at the nearby bus stand, particularly on busy days, reinforcing a sense of teamwork and community responsibility.

This ongoing collaboration highlights a proactive approach to waste management in Suva amidst challenges faced by the local government, including staff shortages and the need for more effective waste disposal practices among vendors. The SCC has been actively working on revitalizing its waste management strategies and educating vendors on proper waste disposal methods, reinforcing the necessity of collective action from both the authorities and the community.

Furthermore, this initiative embodies a positive and hopeful narrative in Suva, inspiring not just a cleaner environment but also fostering a community spirit where everyone plays a part in enhancing urban life. With continued collaboration and educational efforts, there is great potential for a cleaner and more organized market area, contributing to a healthier environment for all Suva residents.