The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has launched a crusade for maintaining a clean and hygienic environment called Operation Sanity.
Operation Sanity is a necessary measure to enforce local government bye-laws throughout the Kanifing Municipality in maintaining a clean environment.
The initiative aims to eliminate illegal sewage disposal in public gutters, combat littering, and prevent the disposal of harmful substances without proper authorization.
During a press briefing on 17 January, Lord Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda stated that the operation would serve as a mechanism to address anti-social behaviour within the municipality.
“It is an initiative based on the council’s bye-laws,” the Mayor justified, saying: “These laws will allow the council to impose fines on those who violate regulations, particularly regarding nuisances in our communities.”
Due to the previous challenges in enforcing these bye-laws, he explained, the KMC’s anti-littering unit collaborated with executive officers “to develop this comprehensive enforcement strategy”.
However, the Lord Mayor emphasised that the initiative is not solely about punishing offenders; it is actually about encouraging compliance among the residents of the municipality.
“Operation Sanity is not just about enforcing bye-laws,” he said. “It is also about raising awareness. We want people to comply. Adhering to these bye-laws will help us live in harmony without causing nuisances in our communities.”
Additionally, the Mayor said the operation would impose charges for illegal encroachments on streets and public places, improper waste disposal, burning of harmful waste, removal of sand and gravel, and fines for stray animals that roam the streets and highways, causing obstructions.
“Operation Sanity does not aim to clear the roads with the assistance of the Gambia Police Force or the central government,” he clarified. “Our goal is not to remove any vendors from the highways or streets.”
Mr Bensouda further affirmed that KMC is committed to responding to the needs and aspirations of its people.
Despite KMC’s dedication to serving its community, he advised, vendors operating on the streets are responsible for maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings, failure to do so would lead to punishment.
“If any vendor is found violating the bye-laws, we will enforce these regulations,” he warns. “We hope this initiative will change behaviour. Our intention is to bring order within our municipality.” He calls for collective efforts to foster cooperation among community members in Kanifing for the well-being and peaceful coexistence of all.
