MCC Launches PPP Waste Management System, Urges Residents to Subscribe as Monrovia Targets Sustainable Sanitation

By Melvin Flomo

MONROVIA, Liberia — The Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) has officially commenced Phase One of its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Solid Waste Management Framework, calling on residents, businesses, and institutions within designated pilot communities to subscribe to authorized waste collection service providers as the city embarks on a major overhaul of its sanitation system.

The initiative introduces a structured and sustainable waste management model that replaces periodic emergency cleanup exercises with scheduled, accountable, and community-based waste collection services.

Under the first phase of the framework, 30 qualified Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs) and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)—the majority of which are Liberian-owned—have been assigned to 12 operational zones covering Electoral Districts 7, 8, 9, and 16. These operators will provide regular door-to-door waste collection services aimed at improving sanitation and ensuring cleaner communities across the capital.

According to the MCC, subscription to the waste collection service is mandatory and serves as the financial foundation of the new system. Revenue generated through subscriptions will enable operators to recruit sanitation workers, maintain equipment, fuel collection vehicles, and provide reliable waste collection services on a consistent basis.

The Corporation described the framework as a significant milestone in its efforts to establish a modern, efficient, and self-sustaining waste management system capable of addressing Monrovia’s long-standing sanitation challenges.

Significant Cleanup Progress

As implementation begins, the MCC reported notable progress in ongoing citywide sanitation efforts.

The Corporation disclosed that accumulated waste along Center Street has been completely removed, while cleanup operations continue along Gurley Street.

It also revealed that approximately 75 percent of the waste at the Fiamah Waste Transfer Station has already been cleared, with operations expected to shift to Stockton Creek upon completion of the exercise.

Meanwhile, more than 75 young Liberians are actively engaged in extensive cleanup activities at Palm Grove Cemetery. The City says plans are underway to construct a perimeter fence around the historic cemetery and introduce a management framework aimed at preserving and restoring the national landmark.

The MCC further announced ongoing engagements with the Liberia Marketing Association and marketers in the Waterside commercial district to establish a sustainable waste collection and disposal system for one of Monrovia’s busiest business hubs.

Building Liberia’s Circular Economy

Beyond improving sanitation, the Corporation says the new framework is designed to support Liberia’s transition toward a modern circular economy.

The MCC outlined plans to invest in recycling, composting, plastic recovery, and waste processing initiatives that are expected to create green employment opportunities, attract private sector investment, reduce environmental pollution, and improve public health outcomes across the country.

Mayor Calls for Public Participation

Monrovia City Mayor John-Charuk Siafa has urged residents to fully support the initiative by subscribing to their designated waste collection providers, complying with sanitation regulations, and reporting illegal dumping and other environmental violations.

The Mayor emphasized that the success of the new waste management framework depends on active public participation and shared responsibility in keeping the city clean.

The MCC also reminded residents that the Mandatory First Saturday Citywide Cleanup Exercise remains in effect, with restrictions on public movement between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., except for emergency services and other authorized essential activities.

The Corporation concluded by expressing gratitude to the Government of Liberia, the Monrovia City Council, development and waste management partners, community leaders, sanitation workers, MCC staff, and residents for their continued collaboration in advancing a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Monrovia.