UE/R: Mcode, Street Janitors Embark on Market Clean-Up, Sensitize Traders on Open Defecation in Bolgatanga

BY:  Gladys Apuweni

Yesterday, Saturday, 16th August 2025, members of the Upper East Regional branch of the Media Coalition Against Open Defecation (Mcode) joined forces with the Street Janitors, a voluntary group of young men and women, to undertake a massive clean up exercise at the Bolgatanga Central Market.

The initiative, aimed at promoting sanitation and hygiene in the municipality, saw the group sweep, desilt, and clear refuse from various sections of the market. After the exercise, the Mcode team took the opportunity to engage market women and traders on the dangers of open defecation and poor sanitation.

During the sensitization, the team highlighted the health risks associated with open defecation, including outbreaks of cholera, typhoid fever, and other sanitation related illnesses. They emphasized that from households to communities, every Ghanaian has a role to play in the fight against open defecation and must commit to keeping their surroundings clean.

The market women were further advised to keep their stalls, homes, and the environment tidy, including ensuring that streets and gutters remain clean to help safeguard public health.

In an interview, Mr. Ayamga Clement, popularly known in the music industry as Nambawan and a leading member of the Street Janitors, explained that the group has taken it upon themselves to conduct clean-up exercises every Saturday morning. According to him, they identify areas in Bolgatanga choked with refuse and step in to clean them.

“Sometimes people mock us and call us all sorts of names, but we are not discouraged because we know the importance of what we are doing. Our aim is to contribute to a healthier Bolga,” he said.

Mr. Clement, however, noted that the group faces significant challenges, particularly the lack of logistics, cleaning materials, and basic tools to facilitate their work. He therefore appealed to stakeholders, benevolent individuals, and institutions to support the Street Janitors in sustaining their efforts.

He also encouraged residents of Bolgatanga to join in the sanitation drive, stressing that environmental cleanliness should not be left to a few individuals but must be embraced by all.

The exercise reflects a growing awareness in the Upper East Region about the need for active community participation in sanitation campaigns. As the fight against open defecation and environmental pollution continues, groups like the Street Janitors and partners such as Mcode are setting a practical example of citizen-led action towards building healthier and cleaner communities.