Local councilors Abdou K. Cham of Sukuta Ward and Lamin Darboe of Bundung Borehole Ward have emphasized the urgent need for community cooperation in tackling solid waste management challenges around the Sukuta–Bundung Bridge.
Speaking during a cleaning exercise organised in partnership with the National Environment Agency and West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA), Councilor Cham highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy environment. “An unhealthy environment is never good to live in. That’s why this cleaning exercise is so important to ensure the people living around the stream can be in good health,” he said.
Despite the provision of dustbins, wheelbarrows, tricycles, septic tanks, and trucks for waste collection, Cham noted that illegal dumping remains a major issue. “The challenge we face is people coming at night to dump waste along or inside the stream,” he explained. However, he expressed optimism that with vehicles now provided for regular waste collection, the situation will improve compared to previous years.
Cham praised WACA’s support, noting that all nine wards and 11 communities in the project have benefited from equipment to aid waste management. He urged residents to use the dustbins provided and wait for weekly or twice-weekly collections instead of dumping waste illegally.
Councilor Darboe of Bundung Borehole Ward echoed similar concerns, stressing the need for community sensitization. “The stream should be cleaned every time. That is why we are working with residents around the area to clear waste and maintain cleanliness,” he said.
Both councilors appealed to residents to take responsibility for their environment:
Cham urged communities to “comply and maintain their waste in compounds” rather than polluting waterways.
Darboe emphasised that “the stream should be cleaned every time” and called for vigilance against those who continue to dump waste improperly.
With continued collaboration between local authorities, environmental agencies, and residents, Sukuta and Bundung aim to set an example of sustainable waste management for other communities across The Gambia.
