Mobile telecommunications giant, Econet Wireless on Thursday donated 1000 bins to City of Harare in what the company says is the beginning of their long relationship with the city fathers towards ensuring a litter free city.
Speaking at the handover ceremony at Town House, Econet Media Relations and Analysts Executive, Fungayi Mandiveyi said his company decided not to leave the Environmental Management Agency and City of Harare struggle against litter in the city.
“One of the most glaring things in the city is litter, we as Econet decided not to leave EMA alone and partner with them to bring something valuable to the public,
“We are also concerned about sustainability, we want to get involved for the long run, we are involved in education, support vulnerable children and orphans through Capernaum Trust and Joshua Nkomo scholarship funds,” said Mandiveyi.
Speaking at the same event, Director General of Environmental Management Agency, Aaron Chigona stated that 1000 bins should be able to improve cleanliness in Harare.
“This will go long way in ensuring that bins are available to most of our urban areas, as we endeavor to create a litter free environment,
“This donation will contribute immensely towards attainment of a clean, safe and healthy environment,” said Chigona.
According to EMA, the donation by Econet is a result of a broad based private public partnership which covers a wide range of issues.
“As EMA we advocate for an integrated waste management approach where sustainable waste management practices like waste reduction, re-use and recycling become a norm rather than an exception,” added Chigona.
Acting Town Clerk, Mrs Josephine Ncube applauded Econet for the gesture saying it is coming at a time when they have started receiving 30 refuse trucks, boosting their efforts to end littering in the city.
“Donation of bins came at a time when we have started receiving consignment of 30 refuse collection trucks, we are excited with this donation,” said Ncube.
She called on residents to dispose litter at designated facilities adding that City of Harare is working on collecting litter within the central business district three to four times a day.
“After this initiative we are also going to try to collect litter at least 3-4 times a day,” said Ncube.
She encouraged other cooperates to emulate and follow in the footsteps of Econet and help City of Harare achieve its vision for a World Class City status by 2025.
