By Josephine Sesay
The Freetown City Council, in collaboration with the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) and HENDDU, has convened a multi-stakeholder workshop to validate an Inclusive Clean Air Communication Strategy aimed at addressing the growing threat of air pollution in the capital. The engagement brought together representatives from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), alongside climate-focused organisations, with the objective of strengthening coordination and promoting evidence-based responses to the city’s worsening air quality situation.
Officials at the workshop expressed concern over rising levels of air pollution in Freetown, warning that the situation continues to pose serious environmental and public health risks. They noted that the new strategy represents a shift from traditional top-down communication approaches towards a more inclusive, community-driven model. A representative of the Freetown City Council emphasised the importance of community involvement in the success of the initiative. “This strategy recognises the importance of engaging communities directly,” the official stated.
“Addressing air pollution requires collective action, and communities must be part of the solution.” The strategy is informed by data collected through interviews and focus group discussions conducted across various communities in Freetown. These findings are expected to guide targeted messaging aimed at encouraging behavioural change and improving environmental outcomes. Environmental experts at the workshop highlighted the importance of public awareness and active citizen participation in addressing pollution.
They stressed that sustainable environmental management depends on informed communities and sustained engagement. The initiative is supported by C40 Cities, a global network of cities committed to tackling climate change. Through this partnership, Freetown is strengthening its capacity to implement practical and sustainable solutions to air quality challenges. As air pollution continues to threaten public health and urban living conditions, authorities say the validation of the strategy marks an important step towards achieving cleaner air and a healthier environment for residents of Freetown.
