Youth initiative seeks to tackle persistent garbage menace in Pangani

Residents of Pangani have long struggled with a garbage problem, with many placing the blame on the failure of the county government to address the issue.

In response to this persistent menace, local youth have taken matters into their own hands, forming a community-based organisation (CBO) to tackle the problem.

The CBO, known as Pangani Communitycare Network, was established by Abdirahman Yusuf, who has been instrumental in bringing the members together to regularly clean up the area and address the persistent garbage problem.

The idea for this CBO began in December 2023 when discussions around forming a community-driven initiative first took place. However, it wasn't until June 30 this year that the organisation was officially registered. Since then, it has grown into a significant force within the community.

Abdirahman, the founder, explained that the CBO is not just about tackling garbage; it aims to solve other challenges that affect the community, particularly the youth. He believes that young people are in the best position to address their issues.

While speaking to The Eastleigh Voice, Abdirahman outlined the organisation's vision for Pangani.

"We envision creating a thriving, vibrant, and resilient community. We want to provide support systems that promote community empowerment, environmental stewardship, and health awareness. We also advocate for social justice, ensuring that every individual has equal access to resources and opportunities," he said.

Abdirahman Yusuf, the chairman and founder of Pangani Communitycare Network. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Abdirahman, who grew up in Pangani, said the organisation is focusing on his neighbourhood because he feels the government has not provided the necessary services. He wants the CBO to fill this gap and ensure that residents feel its presence.

The CBO currently has 100 registered members, all of whom come from the same neighbourhood. The group is diverse, consisting of people from different backgrounds, races, religions, and genders, all working towards the same goal.

"Inclusivity is key for us," said Abdirahman. "We want everyone, from business owners to the elderly, from women to young people, to be part of this initiative. Everyone's support is crucial."

Last week, the CBO carried out its most ambitious project yet — a large-scale cleaning across Pangani. The members, armed with cleaning tools, spent the entire day collecting garbage, sweeping the streets, unclogging sewers, and ensuring that the roads were clean.

The event was a success, and the residents warmly welcomed the initiative. Many expressed their appreciation for the CBO's efforts, seeing it as a positive change in the community.

Efforts of the Pangani Communitycare Network have shown that community-driven initiatives can make a difference. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

One of the residents, Abdi Ahmed, a veteran journalist who has lived in Pangani for years, was particularly impressed with the youth-led initiative.

"This CBO is a blessing to Pangani. For years, the garbage problem has been neglected by the authorities, but now these young people are doing their best to clean up the area. It's a welcome change," Abdi said.

Pangani, located in Starehe Sub-County, has long struggled with garbage disposal, despite having a good road network.

The high population density in the area has made it difficult to manage waste properly, and with minimal efforts from the county government, garbage has accumulated on the roadsides, creating an unsanitary environment.

The efforts of the Pangani Communitycare Network have shown that community-driven initiatives can make a difference. While the garbage problem may not be fully solved yet, the CBO has made a significant impact, and the residents are hopeful that these efforts will continue.

The youth behind this initiative are determined to ensure that Pangani becomes cleaner and more habitable for all its residents.