Kiritimati Island, also known as Christmas Island, witnessed a spectacular showcase of community spirit and environmental stewardship as it hosted the inaugural Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, and Sanitation Competition. This event was organized by the Ministry of Environment, Lands & Agriculture Development (MELAD) through the Agriculture & Livestock Division, and the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) played a pivotal role as part of the organizing committee. The competition took place in conjunction with the grand celebrations of the 44th National Day, signifying the island’s commitment to becoming the “New Paradise.”
The primary objective of the competition was to foster a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Kiritimati Island while advancing its aspiration of becoming a true “New Paradise” for its residents and visitors alike. The organizing committee, comprised of the Wildlife Conservation Unit, the Ministry of Line & Phoenix Islands Development, and the EU-funded Water & Sanitation project, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this community-driven initiative.
Participants from 19 households across three villages – Banana, Tabakeauea, and Ronton – participated in the competition, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on their local environment. The competition witnessed the participation of various individuals and groups, each showcasing their innovative approaches to cleanliness, beautification, gardening, and sanitation.
The competition was supported by generous donations from the government-owned petroleum company, Kiribati Oil Limited (KOIL), and four privately-owned hotels in Kiritimati, namely Little Flower Guesthouse, Sunset Horizon Fishing Lodge, Lagoon View Resort, and Tekabaia Lodge. The gracious contributions of Mum’s Kitchen and the 44th National Day mother-committee also played a significant role in making the event a success.
The Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, and Sanitation Competition served as a testament to the unity and dedication of the Kiritimati Island community in preserving its natural beauty and promoting a clean and healthy environment. TAK extends its appreciation to all the participants, donors, and organizing committee members for their unwavering support and commitment to the cause.
As the island continues to progress towards its environmental and developmental goals, TAK is dedicated to supporting and promoting similar initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the local community and the preservation of Kiritimati Island’s charm.
