This move highlights the government’s recognition of Georgetown’s worsening sanitation problems, although it makes one wonder why basic city functions need involvement from ministers.

While Minister Priya Manickchand’s evening visit to Stabroek Market shows strong commitment by the government, it also highlights the ongoing failures that have led to the city’s decline.

Vendors at Stabroek Market have pointed out what any effective municipal authority should know: the lack of proper garbage-disposal facilities is the main barrier to cleanliness. They express a willingness to help with cleanup efforts, but only if there is proper infrastructural support.

This indicates a clear gap between what the government expects and what the APNU-controlled City Hall has failed to deliver. It’s not just about individual responsibility or civic pride, it’s also about creating the basic conditions needed for vendors and residents to keep their environments clean.

The campaign’s connection to First Lady Arya Ali’s National Beautification Project, which has created 11 recreational spaces since 2020, shows the government’s ability to improve urban areas.

The successful renovation of the Kingston Seawall Esplanade proves that smart investment in public spaces can provide both visual and economic advantages.

Minister Pauline Sukhai’s request for residents to “stop littering and take pride in their communities,” while aiming to restore Georgetown’s “Garden City” reputation is admirable but not enough.

Vendors face daily challenges such as inadequate waste management, blocked drainage systems, and limited support from the city. These issues cannot be solved just by urging people to change their habits.

Past clean-up efforts at Stabroek Market have repeatedly pointed out the same core problems: poor drainage, lack of garbage collection, and insufficient facilities.

Although this ministerial action is necessary, it reflects poorly on City Hall’s ability to handle these issues.

The Georgetown municipality’s clear struggle to maintain basic sanitation without central government help raises serious concerns.

The success of this campaign, nevertheless, will ultimately rely not on continued investment in waste management and the establishment of reliable municipal services to eliminate the need for such emergency measures.