Walvis Bay saw a strong show of unity on Friday, 22 May, as community members, businesses, volunteers, and municipal teams joined hands for the Municipality’s first Mayoral Clean-Up Campaign.

The initiative, led by Walvis Bay Mayor, Cllr Johannes Shimbilinga, focused on cleaning and restoring public spaces across the town through a coordinated day of action. Speaking to participants, Mayor Shimbilinga said the campaign is about more than just cleaning rubbish “This Mayoral Clean-Up is not simply about picking up rubbish; it is about restoring dignity to our public spaces, protecting the plants and animals that share our environment, and inspiring others to follow our lead,” he said.

The event was held in line with World Bio-diversity Day, under the global theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact”.

The day began at Tutaleni High School, where participants gathered before moving out to different clean-up areas across Walvis Bay. Most of the activities took place in Kuisebmond, Narraville, and the town area, where teams worked together to collect waste and improve the environment. By the end of the day, volunteers had filled 990 large refuse bags, showing the impact of collective effort and community teamwork in keeping Walvis Bay clean.

Mayor Shimbilinga thanked residents, businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and municipal workers for their support. He also reminded the community that real and lasting change depends on personal responsibility and ongoing participation. He encouraged residents to reduce waste, reuse materials, and help protect the town’s natural environment and biodiversity.

By Eileen van der Schyff