Maltahöhe:The Maltahöhe Village Council has urged local residents to collectively maintain the cleanliness of their town as part of a new community initiative.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Hardap Regional Council chairperson Simon Kooper emphasized during the campaign's kick-off that the clean-up should be seen as the start of a continuous effort towards cleanliness, community pride, and responsibility. He encouraged the community not to view poverty as a justification for environmental neglect, asserting that economic difficulties and maintaining a clean environment are independent issues.

Kooper called on residents, businesses, youth, community organizations, and authorities to collaborate in removing litter and other environmental threats. He expressed hope that the campaign would highlight both the challenges Maltahöhe faces and the community's determination to overcome them.

The clean-up operation, supported by FNB Namibia, the Office of the Hardap Region Governor, and the village council, will run from October 5 to 16, 2026. Volunteers from the village, including both youth and elders, have pledged their participation.

Constituency councillor Hercules Jantze acknowledged resident concerns about the town's cleanliness and urged complainants to engage actively in resolving these issues. He praised the participation of women, youth, and community members in the initiative as a testament to their sense of ownership over their community.

Jantze concluded by stating that a clean community signifies one that maintains its dignity despite poverty, rather than one free from economic challenges.