Mayor of Luganville, Hon. John Boe Mavutu, has called on citizens in Sanma Province and Luganville to take full responsibility for their town as it continues to develop.

Mayor Mavutu made the call during the opening ceremony of Luganville’s 46th Independence celebrations, organised by the Luganville Municipal Council.

He said every man and woman has an important role to play in building Vanuatu, including keeping communities clean, supporting local businesses, teaching children respect and promoting peace.

“When we keep our town clean, we are building Vanuatu. When we support local businesses, we are building Vanuatu. When we teach our children good behaviour and respect, we are building Vanuatu. When we live in peace, we are building Vanuatu.

He said citizens must take ownership of Luganville because the town belongs to everyone.

“On this Independence celebration, I want to ask every citizen of Luganville to take ownership of our town. This town is everyone’s home. No one else will come and look after our city if we do not take responsibility for it ourselves.

The Mayor said people must work together to ensure Luganville remains clean, safe and a place that can be enjoyed by future generations.

The opening ceremony marked the beginning of Luganville’s celebrations for Vanuatu’s 46th Independence anniversary, with a parade involving government officials, government departments, community members, the Vanuatu Mobile Force Brass Band and members of the Vanuatu Police Force.

The national Independence celebrations began yesterday and will continue until July 30, with a series of activities planned under the official programme.