The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has officially launched its “Operation Sanity” campaign on Monday, aiming to enhance cleanliness and environmental health throughout the municipality. The initiative, which commenced in Old Jeshwang, emphasises the enforcement of municipal bylaws to guarantee adherence to sanitation standards.
The operation consists of four essential units: municipal police, the anti-littering body, the cleansing service, and the community service. They strive to improve public awareness and responsibility for upholding a cleaner environment.
“The council introduced an initiative known as Operation Sanity.” Operation sanity established its own definition. In Mandinka, the term for sanity is ‘Seneyaa’, which indicates that our intention is not to disturb anyone. “We are present to uphold the bylaws that we are required to enforce,” explained Sainey Sanyang, Head of Operations. “The operation will commence at Old Jeshwang.” The operational plan is structured by constituency. Ultimately, there are two aspects to consider. During the initial week of operation in the Old Jeshwang constituency, the cleansing service will conduct a significant follow-up following our activities. Ultimately, we will proceed with our own collector, and if anyone is found in violation of the bylaw, we will impose charges starting from a thousand dalasis and above,” he added.
Mballit Manager Bakary B. Darboe emphasised that the initiative is focused on enforcing compliance with anti-littering laws rather than demolishing shops.
“No demolition exercise will be taking place.” Our sole focus will be on maintaining sanity. We will guarantee a clean environment. If you own a business and the exterior of your shop or any surrounding area is unclean, we kindly request that you take the necessary steps to clean it. Should you fail to do so, we will have to impose charges in accordance with the bylaw and anti-littering regulations. “This is our plan for today and for the next six months,” he stated.
The initial day of the campaign witnessed multiple violations, with those at fault settling fines smoothly. Sanyang praised the residents of Old Jeshwang for their collaboration, characterising the day as a triumph.
The six-month initiative seeks to address challenges like illegal sewage dumping, littering, and the improper disposal of hazardous waste throughout the Kanifing Municipality, promoting a cleaner and healthier community.
