MILLICENT HUNGWE
School children from Mt Darwin participated in the district’s National Clean-Up Day held on the first Friday of this month, June 6.

This follows the monthly clean up initiative launched in 2018 by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, aimed at promoting a clean and healthy environment in the country.
Learners from Mt Darwin Red Cross Society, Mt Darwin Primary School, and Pachedu Junior Academy were among the young volunteers who rolled up their sleeves to clean streets and public spaces in and around the town in Mashonaland Central Province.

The clean-up was supported by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and various stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in environmental issues.
EMA spokesperson Amkela Sidange praised the young participants, saying their involvement is part of the “catch them young” program aimed at building sustainable habits early in life.
She noted that the participation of school children has increased significantly since the program’s inception, highlighting a growing environmental consciousness among youth.
“These young champions are embracing sustainable practices at a very young age, it shows that a culture of environmental stewardship is possible to instill early, and it gives us hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future,” Sidange said.

The children’s efforts reflect a strong sense of ownership and responsibility, setting an example for communities nationwide.
Their enthusiasm and dedication show that even the youngest citizens can lead meaningful change in the fight for a cleaner Zimbabwe.