Waste management is a huge problem in Sierra Leone.
It is common for locals to drink from thin plastic water sachets and plastic water bottles, the same plastics that scatter the streets, slums, and shorelines. Despite the obvious costal implications, plastic poses flooding and public health risks too. Drainage systems are easily clogged from street plastics, and stagnate water provides the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos and water-born diseases.
“20% of Sierra Leoneans live in slum conditions with no basic services.” – United Nations
In May 2018, the president of Sierra Leone announced the implementation of a national cleanup day, which now takes place on the first Saturday of each month. This campaign is especially intended to improve health and hygiene of those living in slums.
