By Clever Marisa
Zimbabwe continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, with its people consistently turning challenges into opportunities for growth and transformation. Among the most commendable national efforts is the commitment to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment. This determination not only protects public health but also accelerates progress toward Vision 2030 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A clean environment is no longer a luxury but, it is a shared necessity and a fundamental pillar of sustainable development.
Recognising the importance of environmental stewardship, President Emmerson Mnangagwa introduced a forward-looking initiative designating the first Friday of every month as a national clean-up day. This visionary policy reflects a deep understanding of the link between environmental cleanliness, public health, and national development. It is a progressive step that demonstrates leadership rooted in innovation, responsibility, and collective empowerment. Such initiatives deserve not only recognition but also active participation from every citizen, as environmental sustainability is a responsibility we all share.
Equally noteworthy is the exemplary leadership exhibited by the First Lady, Auxilia Mnangagwa, who has championed the clean-up campaign with unwavering dedication. Her hands-on involvement sends a powerful message, that keeping Zimbabwe clean is not merely a government directive but a shared moral obligation. By taking the lead, she reminds the nation that a clean environment is a basic human right, essential for dignity, well-being, and social harmony. Her commitment encourages communities to rise to the occasion, reinforcing that sustainable development is achieved through unity, not intention alone.
Community-driven initiatives further strengthen this national mission. The Geopona programme, for instance, has mobilised volunteers across the country to collect and properly dispose of waste, greatly complementing the national clean-up campaign.
Through such initiatives, the country is witnessing a significant reduction in the spread of water-borne diseases such as cholera, dysentery and typhoid, illnesses that remain major health concerns, especially during the rainy season. Stagnant water, blocked drains and accumulated waste create breeding grounds for disease vectors, endangering communities and placing pressure on the nation’s healthcare system. Proper waste management is therefore not just an environmental issue, but a crucial public health intervention.
The World Health Organisation defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease.” This definition makes it clear that environmental cleanliness plays a central role in human health. Clean surroundings reduce pollution, improve mental well-being, enhance quality of life and foster a sense of community pride. A clean environment is a fundamental aspect of human dignity, and protecting it requires cooperation, commitment and accountability from all sectors of society.
Importantly, Zimbabwe’s clean-up initiative aligns strongly with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It supports: Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-being by reducing disease transmission through proper waste disposal; Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation by safeguarding water bodies from contamination; Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting organised, safe, and resilient urban and rural settlements; and Goal 13 – Climate Action by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from decomposing waste, encouraging recycling, and enhancing communities’ resilience to climate-induced disasters such as floods.
Moreover, maintaining clean cities and communities directly supports economic development. Cleaner environments attract investment, boost tourism, enhance property values, improve agricultural productivity and create opportunities for green jobs. Urban centres that prioritise cleanliness often experience better public participation, improved governance and stronger social cohesion. Clean streets, functional waste systems and healthy public spaces make towns and villages both liveable and economically viable.
However, achieving lasting change requires more than a monthly clean-up exercise. It demands continuous commitment and collaboration between government ministries, local authorities, private companies, schools, churches, civil society organisations and individuals. Sustainable waste management practices, such as recycling, composting, responsible industrial waste disposal, and advocating for eco-friendly technologies, must become part of everyday life. Strengthening environmental education in schools and communities will also empower future generations to take responsibility for the environment from an early age.
As Zimbabwe progresses toward Vision 2030, prioritising environmental sustainability remains essential. A clean nation fosters healthier citizens, stronger economic growth and more inclusive development. We owe it to ourselves, our children and future generations to protect and preserve our natural surroundings. Cleanliness should not be viewed as a campaign, but as a way of life and national ethic.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s clean-up initiative represents a powerful and transformative step toward a healthier, more prosperous and environmentally responsible nation. Supporting President Mnangagwa’s vision and embracing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 3, 6, 11 and 13, will collectively build a cleaner Zimbabwe by 2030. Let every citizen rise to the task, for the future of the nation depends on the actions we take today. Together, we can achieve a greener, safer and more sustainable Zimbabwe.
By Clever Marisa (PhD), Social Scientist and Public Health Practitioner. The views expressed here are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of his affiliated institution or any organization.