YOUTHS from three communities in Honiara yesterday conducted a clean up at the underpass between the ITA Hardware and Central Plaza.
The youths from White River, Rove and Borderline undertook the cleaning program as part of a youth project to help maintain cleanliness in the city.
The clean up was conducted to align with the words of Honiara City Council Lord Mayor Wilson Maemae to make Honiara a livable city.
More than a hundred youths came out in numbers to clean and scrub the underground walkway which has been covered with dirt, betel nut stains and various graffiti.
There were lots of plastics being collected which has been littered by people passing through the tunnel over the past months which have not been collected.
Youth program manager Alice Erick said the clean up of the underpass is part of an activity planned by the youths to help beautify the city.
She said engaging the youths in such activities is important so that they can contribute and make an impact in the city through their work.
“The activities are important to engage youths in helping the community and the city rather than involving in anti-social criminal activities that deface our country from developing,” she said.
Ms Erick added such project is important to shape the youths to be good citizens of this nation while developing good behaviors.
Fortnight ago the youths have conducted similar community service work through an exchange exercise.
This involved youths from Borderline conducting community clean-up in White River while White River youths also did the same at Borderline.
“We have received feedback from communities that expressed appreciation for such community work,” she said.
Ms. Erick said the two implementing partners are the Honiara City Council (HCC) and Young Women Christian Association (YWCA).
The other key stakeholder is the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affaires.
She also acknowledged other key stakeholders that also support the youths.
Last week the youths joined international youth week celebration at Multi-Purpose Hall.
By LACHLAN S. EDDIE
