By Fatou Krubally
The National Environment Agency (NEA) has urged Gambians to take greater responsibility for protecting their surroundings, stressing that environmental cleanliness cannot be left to government institutions alone.
Sheikh Alkinky Sanyang, Senior Programme Officer at the NEA, said citizens’ daily actions, particularly their waste disposal practices, have a direct impact on the environment and the well-being of communities.
Speaking on environmental responsibility, Sanyang said government agencies had an important role in developing policies and enforcing environmental regulations, but citizens must also play their part.
“The environment is our shared home. Each Gambian must recognise that their actions, whether positive or negative, directly affect the health, safety and future of our nation,” he said.
His comments come amid recurring concerns over improper waste disposal and blocked drainage channels, particularly during the rainy season when flooding affects several communities.
Sanyang urged residents to avoid practices that contribute to pollution and to participate actively in efforts to keep their communities clean.
He also encouraged greater participation in community clean-up exercises, describing them as an important way of protecting public spaces and improving living conditions.
According to the NEA official, environmental protection should be viewed as a shared responsibility rather than a task exclusively assigned to government institutions.
“A cleaner Gambia means healthier families, stronger communities and a more sustainable future,” he said.
The NEA continues to promote environmental awareness through initiatives focusing on waste management, tree planting and climate resilience.
Sanyang said government interventions could achieve greater impact when citizens supported them through responsible behaviour and active participation in protecting their communities.
He urged Gambians to recognise that maintaining a clean environment begins with individual choices, including proper waste disposal and respect for public spaces.
The NEA official maintained that collective responsibility was essential to building cleaner, healthier and more sustainable communities across The Gambia.