Nyeri Town came alive with a spirit of unity and responsibility on Friday as hundreds of residents, students, institutions, and government officials joined hands in a town-wide clean-up exercise ahead of World Tourism Day celebrations.
The exercise, organized by the County Government of Nyeri through the Department of Trade, Tourism, Culture and Co-operatives, underscored a powerful message: sustainable tourism begins at home with clean, healthy surroundings.
Flagged off by Acting County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Ndirangu Gachunia, the exercise drew participants from across the county.
Chief Officer for Trade George Mwangi and several directors from different departments also took part, emphasizing the county’s commitment to aligning local initiatives with global calls for sustainable transformation.
The clean-up, which stretched across Kenyatta Road down to YMCA and along Kimathi Street through to the Provincial General Hospital (PGH) Nyeri, brought together a wide array of partners and institutions.
Among them were Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Nyeri National Polytechnic, Cathedral Institute, Tetu Technical Institute, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the Scouting Movement, Girl Guides, members of the Kenya Police, and representatives of Mr. and Mrs. Tourism Nyeri.
Officers from the Solid Waste Management and Sanitation Unit of the Municipality provided technical support and ensured that collected waste was properly disposed of.
ALSO READ:
The event’s central goal was not just cosmetic. According to county officials, cleaner streets and improved sanitation are crucial to creating a conducive business environment, attracting investors, and supporting the growth of local enterprises.
“A clean environment is the foundation of a thriving tourism sector,” said Acting CECM Gachunia while addressing participants. “If we want Nyeri to be investor-friendly and a top tourist destination, then we must start with proper sanitation and ownership of our surroundings.”
The initiative comes at a significant moment, as the world prepares to mark World Tourism Day on Saturday, September 27. The 2025 global theme, Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, with a Focus on Resilience, resonates deeply with Nyeri County’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a clean, sustainable, and tourist-friendly destination.
The inclusion of youth in Friday’s clean-up exercise stood out as a major highlight. Students from various institutions, scouts, and girl guides turned up in large numbers, showcasing not only their energy but also a growing awareness among the younger generation about the role they play in shaping a sustainable future. “It is encouraging to see young people leading the way in taking responsibility for their environment,” said Mwangi, the Chief Officer for Trade. “This spirit of volunteerism will go a long way in sustaining the gains we are making as a county.”
Nyeri’s tourism stakeholders have long emphasized the link between environmental cleanliness and economic growth. Tourists are more likely to return to destinations that are clean, safe, and well-managed, while businesses thrive when operating in hygienic surroundings. With the county’s economy heavily supported by sectors like hospitality, agriculture, and cultural tourism, clean-up drives such as this one are not just symbolic but deeply practical.
ALSO READ:
Learning institutions, Corporates urged to invest in cyber security amid rise in threats
Participants expressed pride in playing their part. “Tourism is about more than just attractions; it’s about the overall experience,” said a representative from Dedan Kimathi University. “When a visitor walks through Nyeri Town and finds it clean, that impression stays with them.”
The County Government extended its gratitude to all volunteers and partners who contributed to the event’s success. Special recognition was given to the institutions, community groups, and individuals who sacrificed their time to give back to their community. The county leadership reaffirmed its commitment to investing in such programs, which not only protect the environment but also foster unity, responsibility, and civic pride.
As Nyeri ushers in World Tourism Day, the clean-up exercise has set the tone for a celebration grounded in action. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and growing urban appeal, Nyeri is reminding the world that sustainable tourism is achievable when communities take collective responsibility for their spaces.
In the words of one participant, “Today we cleaned our streets, but tomorrow, the world will see the results.”
By Rodgers Wagura
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
