Sakubva ECD Learners Lead by Example in National Clean-Up Drive

By Evans Jona

MUTARE – In a spirited show of patriotism and environmental stewardship, over 30 Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners from Mother Care ECD Centre in Sakubva joined the national clean-up campaign on Friday, bringing youthful energy to Mwamuka Market as they took part in President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for a cleaner Zimbabwe.

Dressed in tiny protective work suits, face masks and gloves, the children enthusiastically swept pavements, picked up litter, and disposed of waste into bins under the watchful eyes of their teachers and community members.

The initiative is part of the monthly national clean-up campaign launched by the President in December 2018, which mandates that every first Friday of the month be dedicated to cleaning the environment in both public and private institutions.

Mother Care ECD Centre Preparatory Head, Harriet Gwenzi, said involving the children in such national programs was an intentional move to instill values of cleanliness, environmental awareness, and civic responsibility from an early age.

“We decided to bring our learners here so they can appreciate the importance of keeping our communities clean. It’s about grooming them to be responsible citizens who value their environment and understand that a clean space is a healthy space,” she said.

Gwenzi added that exposing children to such campaigns at an early age fosters a culture of discipline, unity, and participation in nation-building, values that the school aims to cultivate in all its learners.

“Our goal as a school goes beyond academics. We are nurturing the next generation of leaders, and leadership begins with being accountable and taking pride in one’s surroundings,” she said.

Community elder Sekuru Roger Chadzingwa, who also participated in the clean-up, praised the school’s efforts and emphasized the importance of socializing children into civic activities while they are still young.

“It is quite impressive to see children as young as these already taking part in national duties. It gives us hope that the future is in safe hands. If they learn now that keeping their environment clean is their responsibility, they will grow up with that mindset,” said Chadzingwa.

The campaign at Mwamuka Market drew attention from vendors and shoppers, many of whom expressed admiration for the children’s participation, with some joining in the clean-up efforts. The market is one of the busiest commercial zones in Sakubva and often struggles with solid waste management due to high foot traffic and informal trade.

Gwenzi also highlighted that Mother Care ECD Centre caters to vulnerable children within the Sakubva community, offering them access to quality early childhood education and life skills development.

“We also enroll children from the community who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, those who may not be able to afford fees or basic learning materials. We believe every child deserves a solid foundation, regardless of their circumstances,” she said.
Environmental experts and government authorities have continued to encourage inclusive participation in the clean-up drives, urging citizens across all age groups to take part in maintaining a sustainable and hygienic environment.

The sight of the tiny learners cleaning with such zeal served as a poignant reminder that environmental consciousness and civic responsibility are values best taught early, and demonstrated through action.