The National Public Health Agency (NPHA), in collaboration with key government institutions and partners, has conducted a beach clean-up exercise as part of activities leading up to the commemoration of One Health Day.
The exercise brought together various NPHA departments and public health pillars, alongside the Freetown City Council (FCC), Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), and other partners.
The initiative focused on removing plastic waste from beaches and promoting environmental cleanliness as part of efforts to protect public health and the environment.
Speaking during the exercise, representatives highlighted the importance of the One Health approach, which recognises the close connection between human, animal and environmental health.
They noted that environmental pollution goes beyond an environmental concern, as improper waste disposal can threaten biodiversity, contaminate surroundings and create health risks for people and animals.
The exercise also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration among government institutions and other stakeholders, with participants emphasising that public health and environmental challenges cannot be addressed effectively by working in isolation.
The event concluded with statements from representatives of FCC, MAFS, MoECC and NPHA, who reaffirmed their commitment to working together and promoting shared responsibility in safeguarding communities.
The initiative reinforced the message that protecting human health, animal welfare and the environment requires collective action towards a healthier future.
