The management committee of the Gorée Marine Protected Area (MPA), in collaboration with the WACA-ResIP Senegal project, recently led an underwater cleanup operation, partnering with environmental organizations and the Local Councils for Artisanal Fishing (CLPA) of Rufisque. This initiative focuses on improving the cleanliness and hygiene of beaches and marine areas, targeting key zones for biodiversity conservation and popular swimming sites. The operation underscores WACA's commitment to preserving West Africa's coastal ecosystems.

The collected waste significantly impacts wildlife, plant life, water quality, and marine and coastal ecosystems. The cleanup team gathered over 20 tons of waste, including debris and abandoned fishing nets. These nets pose a dual threat by trapping and killing numerous marine animals while releasing plastic particles that pollute the entire food chain. Baye Salla MAR, WACA Senegal's communication specialist, voiced these concerns in front of local and traditional authorities from Rufisque at the end of the operation.

Waste piling up along West Africa's shores and in its waters highlights the severe toll human activities take on these vital ecosystems. This growing problem underscores the need to increase awareness and environmental education to protect coastal ecosystems and marine life, fostering a healthy and sustainable coastline.

On World Oceans Day, organizers in the Hann neighborhood demonstrated the power of such initiatives by collecting over 1,400 kilograms of waste along a 5.5-kilometer stretch from Hann Bay to Thiaroye through Rufisque.