Nationwide cleanathon campaign to be launched ahead of country’s 50th annivessary

The National Government is anticipating to launch a nationwide clean-up campaign as the country eyes on celebrating the 50th Anniversary.

The ambitious campaign announced by Prime Minister James Marape this week will center on education, organizing community clean-up events and reinforcing anti-littering laws.

He said the aim is not only to mark the country's significant milestone but to foster a culture of environmental stewardship and pride in public spaces.

Marape is calling on local governments, churches, schools, and community leaders to unite in this effort, urging all citizens to come together for a cleaner, greener Papua New Guinea.

“I am urging every sector of society to join hands in this campaign.

"Let’s take pride in cleaning our towns, villages, and communities, not just to celebrate this anniversary, but as a lasting legacy for future generations,” he said.

The Prime Minister emphasized that cleanliness is not merely about aesthetics but also a vital sign of a nation's development and maturity.

“Papua New Guinea is now 50 years old. We are no longer a young nation; we have matured, and we’ve made progress.

"It’s time to show the world that we are proud of who we are and where we come from,” Marape said.

Meanwhile, through the campaign, local communities will be actively engaged in clean-up events, with special efforts to clear public spaces of litter and discarded betelnut remnants.

Alongside these efforts, the government is enforcing stricter anti-littering laws to hold individuals accountable for maintaining a clean environment.