By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter
In an ambitious initiative to combat flooding in Freetown, the Freetown City Council (FCC) has rallied over 1,000 young volunteers to clear silt and debris from vital drainage channels throughout the city. This significant undertaking, which began two weeks ago, has seen an average of 50 youths per community engaged daily in cleaning gutters and waterways in areas particularly susceptible to flooding.
The initiative, spearheaded by FCC councillors, is part of the broader “Dorti Mus Go” campaign, launched on June 27, 2025. This campaign not only focuses on flood prevention but also emphasizes community ownership and long-term sustainability in sanitation efforts. The FCC aims to enhance public awareness and encourage residents to take responsibility for their environment.
Key areas targeted for flood mitigation include Mayenkineh in Calaba Town, Taylor Street at Kissy Old Road, and various FCC-managed markets such as the Guard Street Market and the Car Wash in Tengbeh Town. The project has received funding from several sources, including FCC’s own revenue, Irish Aid, the Chinese Embassy, and the Road Maintenance Fund Administration (RMFA), among other partners.
In interviews with participants, including local resident Mohamed Conteh, the sentiment was overwhelmingly positive. Conteh expressed pride in contributing to the community’s well-being, stating, “This initiative not only helps our environment but also brings us together as a community.”
While this initiative has garnered praise for its proactive approach to flood management, it is not without its challenges. On the positive side, the mobilization of youth fosters community engagement and instills a sense of pride among participants. It empowers young people by providing them with meaningful work and the opportunity to contribute to their neighborhoods.
However, the initiative also faces hurdles. Some residents continue to disregard proper waste disposal practices, exacerbating the flooding problem. There are concerns that without sustained community education and enforcement of new sanitation bylaws, the efforts may yield only temporary improvements. The FCC has urged residents to refrain from dumping waste in gutters and to register with approved waste service providers for effective waste management.
The FCC commended its Climate Action and Disaster Management Committee, Sanitation Committee, and Disaster Risk Management Unit for their oversight and implementation of this vital project. As the city strives for a cleaner and more flood-resilient Freetown, continued community involvement and adherence to sanitation regulations will be crucial for long-term success.
For more information, contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.
