Ouagadougou: Inmates from the Ouagadougou Detention and Correction Center (MACO) and the high-security prison, along with agents from the Ministry of Justice, participated in a cleanup of the Moogho Naba Canal in Ouagadougou on Saturday. The initiative aimed to sanitize the area and protect the health of local residents.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the involvement of inmates in this public health effort was part of community service and reintegration programs, as stated by the Minister of Justice, Edasso Rodrigue Bayala. This activity was organized in conjunction with the second edition of the Days of Patriotic Commitment and Civic Participation.

The cleanup also saw participation from students of the Prison Security Guards (GSP) school and other Ministry of Justice agents. "A healthy environment protects our health," explained the minister, noting the link between environmental cleanliness and the prevalence of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, which were significant issues the previous year.

The minister expressed regret over the lack of participation from local residents in this "patriotic act" aimed at defending, protecting, and preserving the country for future generations. To enhance ongoing efforts, the minister announced plans to establish a surveillance brigade in collaboration with the municipal police. This initiative will include a toll-free number to report and penalize those who dispose of garbage in the canal.

In a further effort to improve the area, the Minister of Justice also planted trees around the canal, contributing to the city's environmental and public health goals.