The Kanifing Municipal Council has launched ‘operation sanity’ aimed at keeping the municipality clean by enforcing anti-littering laws.

The operation, first initiated in 2020, was not fully enforced in the municipality. The renewed efforts will start by sensitising residents about the laws, followed by strict enforcement.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor Ahmed Talib Bensouda emphasised that the operation is not intended to punish residents but urged them to comply with the anti-littering laws.

“Complying with these by-laws is for the betterment of our communities so that we can live in harmony without causing nuisances to our neighbours,” he said.

Individuals found removing sand and gravel from highways, installing private sewage pipes, or improperly disposing of waste products and hazardous substances will face penalties under the laws.

“These are laws that the council will enforce with fines if contravened, based on the nuisances caused in our communities. Since 2020, we have been trying to enforce these laws through our municipal police and anti-littering unit.

“However, the enforcement has been sporadic; it has been slow and not comprehensive,” he added.

The council has established a task force led by the municipal police, supported by other government agencies such as the national police force.

“We would prefer that residents address these nuisances before our team reaches their communities,” the mayor noted, adding that the initiative will be complemented by monthly cleansing exercises.

By Adama Makasuba