The streets of Madang are getting a fresh start thanks to the Clean-a-thon initiative, a community-driven program spearheaded by Madang Police Prosecutor Sergeant Eugene Wanai.

Alongside his colleagues, Sergeant Wanai launched the initiative with the aim of making Madang return to what it used to be- “Beautiful Madang”.

Though the concept was conceived in May 2025, the program officially commenced in July 2025. While cleaning a town might seem like a minor task to some, Sergeant Wanai emphasizes that its impact is profound, serving as a catalyst for changing the public mindset.

The program operates with a clear legal framework. By using the Summary Offences (Amendment) Act 2018 as a guideline, the team aims to curb public nuisances such as loitering, public smoking, the sale and consumption of buai (betel nut) in restricted spaces.

The success of the clean-a-thon relies on stakeholders working in close collaboration including, the police, local businesses, schools, and the general public. Sergeant Wanai revealed that these advocates would be receiving certificates of appreciation for their unwavering support throughout the first year of the program.

Another key figure of the movement is Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa, who has embraced the initiative and helped scale community participation.

Sergeant Wanai outlined a strategic four-stage progression for the movement:

1. Awareness: Educating the public on civic responsibility.

2. Action: Physical clean-a-thon events.

3. Enforcement: Applying the law to maintain standards.

4. Transformation: Observing drastic, sustainable change in the urban environment.

A core value of the program is self-reliance. Sergeant Wanai stressed that communities should take the initiative for their own programs rather than becoming overly dependent on the government.

He noted that the government recognizes these programs in terms of funding, but the spark must come from the people.

The Sergeant expressed his gratitude for the support of local students, specifically highlighting Divine Word University (DWU) and Madang Teachers College.

“Divine Word University is an institution that has been part of us and Madang Teacher’s College,” he stated.

Currently, the Clean-a-thon is held monthly, with plans to transition to a quarterly schedule as the community continues to adopt cleaner habits, and the need for intensive intervention decreases.

“As time goes by and we see that people are adapting to the norm, then we might do it maybe quarterly.”