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By Gerald Mukembu The youth in Meru Town have raised concerns over the rising insecurity in and around Nteere Park. In an effort to address this issue, they recently organized a tree planting and cleanup initiative, during which they also cleared bushes that had become a haven for criminal activities. Mark Munene, the founder of the Environmental Action Alliance, spearheaded this exercise alongside other committed youths. He called on security agencies to enhance security around the Mwendantu and St. Paul paths that surround the park, as these areas have become escape routes and hideouts for thieves. Munene further appealed to both the national and county governments to construct a perimeter wall around Nteere Park, install seats, and enhance the park’s aesthetics to attract more visitors. He emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the park, urging visitors to avoid littering. Munene lamented the theft of metallic seats, the fence, and the gate that were initially installed by the former Meru Governor Peter Munya. These items were reportedly dismantled and sold as scrap metal, further contributing to the park’s challenges. Jenerose Gacheri, another concerned individual, highlighted that the park had deteriorated into a hub for drug and alcohol use, with even students being part of this worrying trend. Given that the police station borders the park, she urged authorities to implement round-the-clock surveillance and construct a secure perimeter wall to curb insecurity. The youth expressed their gratitude to Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia for his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at cleaning parks, markets, and towns within Meru County. Dominick Kirimi, Secretary General of the Meru Youth Council, underscored the importance of personal and community responsibility. He encouraged individuals to counter destructive habits, such as littering, and champion a clean and safe environment for the well-being of society. Kirimi pointed out that if everyone took responsibility for their surroundings, whether at home or in the workplace, Meru could achieve significant environmental and social improvements. The area’s assistant chief, Peter Kaaria, commended the youths for their efforts and noted that the park had previously been a source of insecurity. With the bushes now cleared, he emphasized that the park could once again serve as a safe and relaxing space for people to enjoy. He encouraged young people to engage in community-based initiatives like this one as a productive alternative to drug and alcohol abuse, which often leads to criminal behavior. Patrick Kathurima, a member of the Meru Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of a conducive environment for business growth. He expressed satisfaction with the youth’s proactive involvement in creating a clean and welcoming atmosphere, which benefits both visitors and the local business community. Kathurima stressed the need for collective action to preserve Meru’s progress as it approaches city status, ensuring that negative behaviors do not undermine these achievements. Lastly, Mercy Kaari, Meru Youth Council Secretary, emphasized the importance of commemorating environmental initiatives. She explained that their efforts to plant trees and clean up the park were a way of supporting Governor M’Ethingia’s vision while promoting sustainable environmental practices. This initiative reflects a commendable collaboration between the youth, local authorities, and leaders, demonstrating the power of grassroots efforts in fostering change. It also underscores the importance of personal responsibility and collective action in addressing community challenges, setting a positive example for other areas to follow.