By Hou Akot Hou
Officials from the Aweil Municipal Council in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State on Friday joined community cleaners in a general cleaning exercise as part of the “Keep Aweil Clean” campaign in Aweil Town.
The initiative aims to improve sanitation and reduce crime in the town, particularly in bushy areas around neighborhoods such as Malou-Awer, Gabaat, and surrounding suburbs.
These overgrown areas have reportedly been used by criminals as hiding spots after committing theft.
Speaking to the media during the launch, Aweil Town Mayor Garang Diing Deng said the campaign focuses on clearing tall grasses, shrubs, and other vegetation that have overtaken parts of the town.
“We have decided to keep Aweil Town clean, and that is why all municipal officials are here today to ensure that bushy areas like Malou-Awer, where a plant locally known as ‘Awiir’ grows widely, are cleared,” he said.
The mayor explained that rising theft cases influenced the decision, noting that suspects often escape into dense vegetation after stealing property.
“Crimes are increasing because many young men hide in these bushy areas after stealing. Clearing them will expose such activities and improve security,” Deng added.
He also announced new public health measures, including a directive requiring residents to construct pit latrines.
“All households will be asked to dig pit latrines of about two to three meters deep to help prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera. This will be mandatory,” he stated.
Mary Adut, one of the volunteer cleaners, welcomed the initiative despite the lack of payment.
“This is our home, and keeping the town clean is our responsibility. Even though I come from the Naivasha neighborhood, I feel it is my duty to take part in this community work,” she said.
Although the campaign was launched on a Friday, traditionally observed as a public farming day for government officials, the municipality has announced that future general cleaning activities will take place every Tuesday.
The move is intended to strengthen public health awareness and improve sanitation across the state.