By Kate Bih
Empire Waste Management Company finally responded to public outcry and cleaned up the rotting pile of trash that had been left at Azire Old Church Junction.
On Thursday, residents of the Nitop neighborhood expressed relief that their prolonged calls for action had finally been heard.
“We have been demanding in the media that this waste be removed. Thank God, the authorities have come to their senses,” said a resident of Nitop 1.
“It’s good that they are picking up the trash. We are really happy,” added Tse, a resident of Nitop 3 neighborhood.
Esther, a 70-year-old woman, expressed gratitude to the media for highlighting their plight and forcing the Bamenda City Council to take necessary action.
“Look how traffic has been restored and the smells have disappeared. I feel better now sitting on the side of the road. I thank the media who came here and interviewed us several times. I am sure their reports forced the authorities to act,” Esther said.
Although the community currently enjoys a cleaner environment, concerns about the future remain.
Residents fear that waste will pile up again if nothing is done to ensure consistent waste management.
In response, members of the neighbourhood council took matters into their own hands, issuing a notice banning the disposal of waste at Azire Old Church Junction.
“We have introduced a fine of 50,000 CFA francs for anyone caught throwing garbage at the crossroads of the old church of Azire. People should manage their waste at home,” said Tse David, secretary of the Traditional Council of Nitop 3.
“We have raised awareness among the population about managing their waste at home. For those who cannot, we will announce the arrival of a truck so that they can get rid of their waste,” said a member of the neighborhood council.
Despite the current state of cleanliness, many residents regret that the waste management program is not sustainable, given the constant production of waste.
Empire Waste Management Company has declined interviews to clarify its waste management program, raising new concerns among local residents.
Residents warn that the lack of communication on waste management could lead to environmental and health problems, as many people resort to dumping their waste into waterways, especially when it rains.
©Mimi Mefo Info
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