The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), together with the other security services, National Service Secretariat, and Zoomlion Ghana Limited have embarked on a clean-up exercise to address sanitation issues in the La Dade Kotokpon, Ashaiman and Ledzokuku Municipal Assemblies on Friday, 8 December 2023.

The unprecedented initiative was aimed at fostering Civil-Military relationship while tackling pressing issues of waste management in the municipalities to mark the 50^th Anniversary of the National Service Scheme (NSS).

GAF helped mobilize all resources for the comprehensive clean-up exercise, alongside manpower and volunteers equipped with gloves, brooms, cutlasses, and garbage bags, and worked tirelessly to remove waste from designated areas. The day-long exercise involved various tasks such as the cleaning of gutters, desilting drainage systems, clearing bush, cleaning of beaches, and removal of debris from the streets.

The initiative emphasized not only physical cleanup but also health promotion and education. GAF also played a crucial role in providing personnel and medical assistance in ensuring the holistic success of the exercise.

The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Vice Admiral Seth Amoama emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving the environment and enhancing community well-being. He underscored the importance of consistent cleanliness, maintenance and encouraged residents to actively contribute to maintaining their surroundings.

He lauded the community collaboration with the Military, national service personnel, and local assemblies to maintain cleanliness, hoping for peace and harmony as the festive season approaches. He advocated for periodic communal labour, proper waste disposal, and the clearing weeds to maintain cleanliness, and promote good personal and community health.

The Executive Director of NSS, Hon Osei Assibey Antwi urged all national service personnel to act as change ambassadors and expressed gratitude to the military for leading the clean-up and health exercise.

Residents commended the joint effort, praising the collaborative spirit displayed by all stakeholders. Many expressed hope that this initiative would mark the beginning of a sustained drive towards a cleaner and healthier environment within the La Dade Kotokpon, Ashaiman, and Ledzokuku municipalities.