Wamena, Jayawijaya – Wamena, the capital of Jayawijaya Regency, is beginning to show a cleaner and more organized face, thanks to a volunteer-driven initiative led by the Sapu Bersih Kota Dani (Clean Sweep of Dani City) Community.
This grassroots movement started in early April 2025, sparked by the concern of Jayawijaya Regent Atenius Murip, who, while on his way to a church service, noticed the streets littered with garbage. This moment inspired the formation of a volunteer team to clean various parts of the city.
The initiative is powered by the Sapu Bersih Kota Dani Community, consisting of volunteers from all walks of life—including children, students, housewives, church members, photography groups, and other community organizations from surrounding areas like Ilekma and Bambu Kuning.
Volunteers have been cleaning trash from gutters, sidewalks, and major roads. Key areas already covered include the vicinity of Tugu Salib, Yos Sudarso Street, Bhayangkara Street, Sudirman Street, SD Percobaan Street, and Thamrin Street. The clean-up is ongoing and will continue in other areas of Wamena.
Efforts are focused on both central Wamena and surrounding neighborhoods. Several sectors from outside the city, such as Mamteng and Walaik, have also joined the initiative under their own local coordination.
Launched in early April 2025, the campaign is part of the 100-day action program of Regent Atenius Murip and Deputy Regent Ronny Elopere.
Beyond improving the city’s appearance, the movement aims to raise public awareness about the importance of environmental cleanliness and shared responsibility. Regent Atenius Murip emphasized that the transformation of Wamena depends not only on government efforts but also on active citizen participation.
The clean-up is entirely voluntary and self-funded, with no government budget involved. Each community group is assigned responsibility for specific locations under the guidance of local coordinators. The Regent’s wife, Dr. Idawati Waromi Murip, Sp.KJ, also takes part directly in the activities alongside the volunteers.
“If people become more aware of the importance of a clean environment, Wamena can truly become a clean, comfortable, and beautiful city,” said Regent Murip, while also urging shop owners and vendors to keep the front areas of their businesses clean every day.
This movement demonstrates that collaboration between citizens and local government can lead to real change—even without a large budget. All it takes is the willingness and shared commitment of the people.
