In a significant demonstration of community spirit, youths from 17 churches and seven communities in Lami recently organized a clean-up campaign and sports day, undeterred by early morning rain. This initiative emerged from concerns among local youths regarding the increasing litter in public spaces, especially along the beach and Tikaram Park.
Filipe Sabe, secretary of the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF), explained that this effort stems from a collective desire to restore and maintain the attractiveness of Lami. “We are tired of seeing rubbish in Lami, especially on the beach, and we want tourists to come and enjoy their time here, having picnics in Tikaram Park without encountering litter,” he expressed.
The clean-up saw active participation from local government services, including the Fiji Police Force, Ministry of Health, National Fire Authority, and the RFMF Navy, reinforcing community partnerships. In addition to cleaning up, they also offered important health services, conducting HIV/AIDS screenings during the event.
This commitment to community well-being and pride echoes similar initiatives across Fiji aimed at promoting environmental responsibility. For instance, recent events in Davuilevu and Lautoka have successfully engaged local youth and officials in collective clean-up efforts, all emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility and sustainable practices. These actions develop not only environmental stewardship but also a sense of belonging and accountability among participants.
The clean-up in Lami is a part of a growing trend of collaborative environmental actions across Fiji, which highlight an upward shift in public consciousness regarding waste management and local accountability. As communities unite for these causes, there remains hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.
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