Pariwa joins the people to clean up Madang

Madang Governor Ramsy Pariwa is leading by example, showing that he cares for the people by taking part in cleaning the town himself.

This was revealed by Cleanathon Program Coordinator Eugene Wanai ahead of the first cleanathon for this year, scheduled for January 31.

Mr Wanai said the Governor has a big vision for Madang and believes that change must start with leaders.

“He has shown real care for the people and the province. By supporting the cleanathon, he is helping to change people’s attitudes towards keeping Madang clean,” Wanai said.

He said Governor Pariwa’s hands-on involvement has inspired the team and the community.

“For him to walk the streets and clean the town with the people shows that he is a true son of Madang,” Wanai said.

Because of his strong support and participation, Governor Pariwa has been named Patron of the Cleanathon Program.

The Madang Cleanathon Program began in July last year and continues to encourage residents to take pride in their town by keeping it clean.

The Cleanathon Program has brought together business houses, government agencies, the Madang Provincial Government, and members of the public to work together to keep Madang clean.

Town residents and people from nearby villages take part in monthly clean-ups of the Central Business District, the beachfront, main roads, and residential areas.

The program is supported by the Madang Urban Local Level Government and will continue this year with full backing from the Madang Provincial Government.

One major achievement of the program is the new restrictions on betelnut chewing, smoking, and street vending in the CBD. The ban also applies to bus stops, PMVs, and private vehicles, and came into effect on January 1, 2026.

While the changes have received some criticism, many people are now welcoming the ban. Residents say it is helping to give Madang a cleaner look and restore the image of the once-beautiful resort town.