Lae city residents are coming together this weekend for the inaugural Rosso Community Cleanathon, a grassroots clean-up drive sparked by growing concerns over litter in public areas.
The initiative is spearheaded by Michael Earley, Deputy Chair of the Lae District Peace and Good Order Committee, who said the campaign is about changing attitudes and encouraging people to take pride in their surroundings.
“This isn’t about getting paid — it’s about working together to make Lae cleaner and healthier,” Earley said.
The Cleanathon is set to become a twice-yearly event, with another clean-up scheduled for early September. To mark the effort, colorful flags will be displayed around the city, celebrating unity and civic pride.
Primary, secondary, and tertiary schools have been invited to take part, following a directive from Morobe Provincial Education Advisor Keith Tangui. Students in grades 6 to 8 will lead school participation, while local businesses and organizations are encouraged to get involved in uniform.
Support has also come from the Lae Fire Service and JVPNG, and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso — who is also Lae’s MP — has pledged to join the clean-up in the top town area. School groups will clean areas outside the central business district, while businesses and volunteers will focus on the city centre.
The concept emerged from conversations among Lae ward groups and concerned citizens eager to take action.
Earley made a public appeal for better behavior, especially urging public transport users not to litter or spit from buses.
“Being a responsible citizen starts with simple actions,” he said. “Let’s change our mindset and make Lae the green city it deserves to be.”
He also dismissed any speculation about political motives, reaffirming that his involvement is driven purely by community spirit.
Businesses interested in supporting the event are encouraged to donate gloves, rubbish bags, snacks, or drinks for the volunteers.
The Cleanathon is entirely voluntary, with no payments involved — just shared responsibility and hope for a cleaner future.
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