The Empire Waste Management Company has finally responded to public outcry and cleared the heap of decomposing waste that had been abandoned at the Azire Old Church Junction.
This Thursday, inhabitants of the Nitop neighborhood expressed relief as their prolonged appeals for action were finally heard.
“We have been crying on the media for this waste to be removed. Thank God the authorities have come to their senses,” said a resident of Nitop 1.
“It is good that they are clearing the garbage. We are indeed happy,” added Tse, a resident of the Nitop 3 neighborhood.
Esther, a woman in her 70s, expressed gratitude to the media for highlighting their plight and forcing the Bamenda City Council to take necessary action.
“See how traffic has been restored and the odor is disappearing. I can now feel better sitting by the roadside. I thank the media, who came here and interviewed us severally. I am sure their reports forced the authorities to act,” said Esther.
While the community is currently enjoying a cleaner environment, concerns about the future remain.
The residents worry that the waste could soon pile up again if nothing is done to ensure consistent waste management.
In response, the Quarter Council members have taken matters into their own hands, issuing a notice prohibiting the disposal of garbage at the Azire Old Church Junction.
“We have instituted a fine of 50,000 CFA francs for anyone caught throwing garbage at the Azire Old Church Junction. People should manage their waste in their homes,” stated Tse David, secretary of the Nitop 3 Traditional Council.
“We have sensitized the population to manage their waste at home. For those who cannot, we shall announce when a truck is passing by for them to dispose of their garbage,” said a Quarter Council member.
Despite the current clean state, many residents regret that the waste management programme is not sustainable, given the constant generation of waste.
The Empire Waste Management Company declined interviews aimed at clarifying their waste management program, raising further concerns among locals.
Residents warn that the lack of communication about waste management could lead to environmental and health issues, as many people are resorting to discarding their waste in waterways, especially when it rains.
