The Tribune

IMPROVING the physical appearance of an inner city community can be a powerful tool for social change, according to Rev C B Moss.

For the veteran activist and president of the Bain and Grants Town Advancement Association (BGTAA), recapturing the former beauty of historic neighbourhoods not only encourages a greater appreciation for the environment, it also promotes pride, self-respect and a feeling of togetherness among those who live there.

This, he said, is the idea behind the association’s ambitious new pilot programme, Project Clean Sweep, which will aim not only to remove trash, derelict vehicles and other environmental pollutants but also beautify the area for the enjoyment of all its residents.

“There was once a time when this area was considered the pride of New Providence,” Rev Moss said. “Through years of neglect it has deteriorated considerably. The aim is to arrest this trend and return Bain and Grants Town to its former charm, in the process giving its residents, who have suffered many hardships and disappointments, a reason to be both proud and hopeful.”

The first phase, which will target the southern half of Bain Town, was launched following a donation from Save The Bays (STB), a leading environmental advocacy organisation in the Bahamas which supports the efforts of a number of community partners as part of its mandate to promote environmental protection, freedom of information and the rule of law.

Rev Moss said a number of other entities have expressed interest in supporting Project Clean Sweep, and he expects further donations in the near future.

“We do not plan to stop here. Phase two will tackle northern Bain Town and we are fully confident that responsible citizens will support that effort and help us expand the project into Grants Town as well,” he said.