By: Darious Dapae
Greenville, Sinoe County – In a vibrant display of leadership and service, Cllr. Sylvia Tarley, Director of the Samuel Alfred Ross Port of Greenville, launched a large-scale community cleanup campaign in honor of the 80th birth anniversary of President Joseph Boakai and her own 55th birthday.
The initiative, which targeted communities impacted by Port operations, sought to enhance environmental hygiene, promote community health, and foster a sense of collective responsibility among residents.
The cleanup exercise involved various activities, including clearing debris from public spaces, removing waste from drainage systems, and sensitizing residents on proper waste management practices. Dozens of volunteers, including Port workers and local community members, enthusiastically joined the campaign, which transformed the affected areas into cleaner, more organized spaces.
Addressing participants during the event, Cllr. Tarley underscored the importance of such initiatives in improving community welfare. “This is not just a birthday celebration for me or President Boakai; it’s a call to action to ensure that we are taking care of the environment we all share. Our commitment to a cleaner and healthier environment must start with us,” she said.
The campaign, themed “Clean Communities for a Brighter Future,” highlighted the environmental challenges faced by communities near the Port and the urgent need for sustainable interventions. The Samuel Alfred Ross Port of Greenville provided logistical support, including cleaning tools, protective gear, and waste disposal equipment, to ensure the success of the exercise.
Cllr. Tarley also used the occasion to reflect on President Boakai’s enduring legacy of service to Liberia, noting that his 80th birthday was a fitting moment to honor his values of unity and progress through meaningful community impact.
“President Boakai’s leadership has always been about uplifting others and fostering development. This initiative aligns perfectly with his vision of a better Liberia, where every citizen plays a role in building the nation,” she added.
The initiative received significant applause from local residents, who expressed their appreciation for the intervention. Many described it as a timely response to pressing sanitation issues in the area.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Elder Joseph Wiah, a local leader, said, “Cllr. Tarley has not only demonstrated her leadership but also her love for the people. This cleanup has brought relief to many of us who have struggled with poor sanitation for years. We are grateful for her efforts.”
In addition to the cleanup activities, Cllr. Tarley pledged to continue working with community leaders and environmental stakeholders to implement long-term solutions for waste management and environmental conservation in the Port’s neighboring areas.
“This is just the beginning. We are committed to ongoing efforts to ensure that these communities remain clean, healthy, and sustainable,” she remarked.
Volunteers at the event shared their experiences, with many commending the collaborative spirit that characterized the exercise. Sarah Johnson, a participant and Port staff member, said, “It’s inspiring to see everyone come together for a common cause. This is what community service should look like.”
The campaign also served as an opportunity to raise awareness about environmental preservation and the role individuals can play in maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings. Educational flyers and posters were distributed, emphasizing the importance of proper waste disposal and recycling.
The event ended with a short program where Cllr. Tarley and other officials thanked the volunteers for their active participation and reiterated their commitment to supporting similar initiatives in the future.
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