The heart of Dokolo pulsed with a renewed sense of purpose this past Saturday as community members from all walks of life stepped out of their homes and businesses to embrace a cleaner way of living. Resident District Commissioner Barbara Akech stood at the forefront of this movement, offering her heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated residents, security forces, and local entrepreneurs who dedicated their morning to the National Cleaning Day initiative. She emphasized that a spotless environment is not just a luxury but a fundamental necessity for boosting public health and opening the doors to serious economic investment and regional growth.
The cleanup, which took place across the busy streets of Dokolo Town Council between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., was a direct response to a visionary mandate from Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja. This national policy designates the final Saturday of every month as a time for all Ugandans to pause their daily routines and work together to sanitize their surroundings. RDC Akech was particularly impressed by the collaborative spirit shown by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, the Uganda Police Force, and the Uganda Prisons Service. She also highlighted the vital roles played by health workers, market vendors, boda boda riders, and even members of the press who traded their microphones for brooms to help beautify the town.
While the turnout was inspiring, Akech noted that there is still room for improvement. She observed that some businesses remained operational during the cleaning hours and many residents were still unaware of the government’s directive. She urged the public to see these three hours as an investment in their own well-being. By eliminating stagnant water and clearing away refuse, the community is directly fighting back against life-threatening illnesses like cholera and diarrhea, while also destroying the breeding grounds for mosquitoes that spread malaria. Beyond health, Akech pointed out that a clean and organized town is the strongest argument Dokolo can make as it strives to achieve municipal status and attract modern urban development.
Local leaders also played a crucial role in the success of the day, with the Dokolo Town Council LCIII Chairperson providing a tractor to ensure that the gathered waste was efficiently hauled away. This spirit of cooperation was echoed by Esther Atim, a local merchant who noted that a clean market is a thriving market. However, Atim also brought a voice of practical concern to the table, requesting that the district provide essential safety gear such as gloves, gumboots, and wheelbarrows. She stressed that having proper waste containers would prevent the hazardous habit of dumping trash in open spaces, making the cleanup process safer and more sustainable for everyone involved.
The National Cleaning Day is far more than just a chore; it is a monthly opportunity for every citizen to take ownership of their environment. The government’s goal is to foster a culture of collective responsibility where homes, workplaces, and public spaces are kept in pristine condition. By participating in this national call to action, the people of Dokolo are not just picking up litter—they are building a foundation for a healthier, more prosperous, and more prestigious community for generations to come. Everyone is encouraged to mark their calendars for the next cleaning session and be part of this vital transformation.