Revealed: The 7 Cleanest Cities in Africa

Health, they say, is wealth, and it is almost impossible to talk about good health without cleanliness being a strong contributing factor. Clean cities contribute significantly to the well-being of their residents. It achieves this by reducing the risk of diseases and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

In the continent of Africa, urbanization and development are rapidly increasing, and as a result, the environment has never been more polluted than now. This is why it is very essential for African countries to prioritize cleanliness and sustainability.

The Importance of Cleanliness

In elementary school, we were taught that cleanliness plays a vital role in enhancing public health. This is true because a clean environment helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases, reduces air pollution, and promotes mental well-being.

Also, studies show that living in a clean city can lead to lower healthcare costs and increased productivity among residents. In addition, clean cities attract tourists and investors, thereby contributing to local economies and improving overall quality of life.

The 7 Cleanest Cities in Africa

Here’s a look at the seven cleanest cities that are setting the standard for urban cleanliness in Africa.

1. Kigali, Rwanda

Did you know that Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, has been recognized as the cleanest city in Africa? This city is renowned for its cleanliness and orderliness.

The city has implemented strict waste management policies, and this includes placing a ban on the use of plastic bags since 2008.

Also, Kigali has what is known as community cleaning days, which are known as Umuganda. It occurs every last Saturday of the month, where residents come together to clean their neighborhoods.

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2. Cape Town, South Africa

This city is known for its stunning landscapes, and it boasts of an impressive solid waste management system. Also, the city’s commitment to cleanliness is evident in its well-maintained public spaces and active community involvement in environmental initiatives.

The Cape Town City Improvement District and the waste management department work together to ensure that the city remains clean at all times. This high level of cleanliness is the result of a collaborative effort between the authorities and the residents.

These efforts have not only beautified the city but also created a healthier environment for both residents and tourists.

3. Tunis, Tunisia

Tunis is the capital of Tunisia, and the city has made significant progress in maintaining cleanliness through her innovative waste management practices.

The Tunisian Ministry of the Environment also plays a crucial role in promoting cleanliness in the city. Their efforts include organizing cleanup campaigns and improving waste management systems.

A notable initiative is Cleanup Month, an initiative that encourages citizens to participate in cleaning their neighborhoods. The grassroots campaign aims to instill a culture of environmentalism among residents. It also aims to emphasize that maintaining a clean city is a shared responsibility.

Also, the success of cleanliness initiatives in Tunis largely depends on community participation. Residents are encouraged to take part in cleanup drives and environmental awareness campaigns, which help cultivate a sense of responsibility.

4. Port Louis, Mauritius

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and ranks as one of the cleanest cities on the continent. It will interest you to know that this city is the most populated in Mauritius.

The cleanliness of Port Louis is a result of various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices. The city’s administration actively engages in waste management strategies that include recycling programs and community clean-up campaigns.

These efforts are supported by local businesses and residents who participate in activities such as tree planting and regular clean-up drives. Efforts and initiatives like this foster a strong sense of community ownership over the city’s environment.

Furthermore, the city is investing in renewable energy projects, particularly solar power, so as to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

5. Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and is also one of the cleanest cities on the continent. This city is often referred to as “the city of gold,” and it boasts a significant number of trees that play a crucial role in mitigating the greenhouse effect within the urban environment.

The city is one of the largest man-made urban forests in the world, as it is made up of approximately 10 million trees. The trees enhance the city’s beauty and contribute to improved air quality and overall environmental health.

One of the key initiatives that contributes to Johannesburg’s cleanliness is the Breathe Cities program, launched as part of the city’s annual Clean Air Week. This initiative aims to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance public health through community engagement and targeted policies.

By 2030, Johannesburg aims for a 30% reduction in air pollution, which is crucial for the health of its residents and the environment as a whole.

Additionally, Clean City SA, a community-based non-profit organization, plays a vital role in promoting cleanliness through waste reduction, recycling, and street cleaning efforts. The organization manages various localities within Johannesburg and focuses on litter picking and street sweeping to keep public spaces clean.

6. Nairobi, Kenya

Do you know that the name “Nairobi” comes from the Maasai phrase “Enkare Nyrobi,” which means “cool water?”

Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and is often referred to as the “Green City in the Sun.” The city launched the Breathe Cities initiative in 2023, an initiative that aims to reduce air pollution by 30% by 2030. It focuses on enhancing air quality monitoring, engaging communities, and implementing regulatory reforms to create a healthier urban environment.

In addition, the Nairobi Rivers Clean-Up Initiative, which is spearheaded by the Water Resources Authority, focuses on restoring the city’s rivers and improving water quality. This initiative involves regular clean-up exercises and community engagement to raise awareness about pollution and its impact on aquatic ecosystems.

7. Kumasi, Ghana

Kumasi is the second-largest city in Ghana and the capital of the Ashanti Region. It is also renowned for its commitment to cleanliness and innovative sanitation solutions. With a population of approximately 2.5 million, Kumasi has made significant strides in improving public health through effective waste management and community engagement.

One of the key factors that contributed to Kumasi’s status as one of Africa’s cleanest cities is the successful partnership between organizations like Clean Team Ghana and Safisana.

Clean Team Ghana provides portable household toilets to low-income communities, addressing the urgent need for sanitation in areas where public toilets are either scarce or inadequate. They collect waste from these toilets and transport it to treatment facilities.

Also, Safisana complements this effort by processing organic and fecal waste into valuable products such as biogas and biofertilizer. This innovative approach reduces waste and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by providing farmers with compost.

Conclusion

The commitment to cleanliness in these cities enhances their aesthetic appeal and significantly contributes to public health and environmental sustainability. Also, other cities across Africa can adopt similar practices to improve their own urban environments. The collective cleanliness of cities in Africa will also make the continent a cleaner, healthier and safer place to live in.