Surinamese authorities have initiated an intensive bulk waste removal operation in high-risk areas as a strategic measure to contain the spread of chikungunya virus. The campaign, targeting neighborhoods with the highest infection rates, represents a coordinated multi-agency response to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
Acting Director of Public Green Space and Waste Management (OGA) Anwar Moenne confirmed substantial public participation in the Marowijne Project and Blauwgrond regions during initial collections. The operation is spearheaded by OGA under the Ministry of Public Works and Spatial Planning (OWRO), with implementation guidance from the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor (VGA).
The collaborative effort involves district commissioners and the National Coordination Center for Disaster Management (NCCR), which has contributed two vehicles to support logistics. Execution combines contracted service providers already engaged by OWRO with prison labor resources, creating an integrated operational approach.
Health Minister André Misiekaba emphasized that eliminating breeding sites remains the most effective preventive strategy against chikungunya transmission. Officials have issued urgent appeals for community cooperation, urging residents to maintain clean premises and cease illegal dumping of household and bulk waste along streets and public spaces.
The operation continues through Friday with scheduled collections in Geyersvlijt (Tuesday), Clevia (Wednesday), Tamansari in Commewijne District (Thursday), and concludes in Richelieu. Project effectiveness will undergo comprehensive evaluation upon completion.