The 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation community joined millions of people across the globe in making the world cleaner and brighter on September 20, which is celebrated globally as the World Cleanup Day.
We set out to renew learning environments at Merowa and Quentin Primary Schools under the banner “Fresh Spaces, Fresh Minds.”
Throughout the day, our dedicated volunteers, partners, teachers and school children painted classrooms, cleaned, repaired broken spaces, and restored a sense of pride and purpose within the schools.
The exercise was not only about improving physical infrastructure but also about igniting hope and reinforcing 4040’s goal of fostering community agency.
Speaking at the activity, Jonathan Mutungi, Head of the Angaza Outreach Program, highlighted the vision behind the initiative:
“Environment is everything. This was about us being the change we want to see. The true impact will bloom when the children walk into their bright, colorful classrooms on Monday.”
That vision was embodied by volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to creating vibrant spaces for learners. Nancy Leron Zion, one of the volunteers, reflected on her experience:
“It was amazing to see how involved the children were. They worked alongside us with so much interest. Knowing that they will now study in a better environment makes me so happy. Trust me, when the kids return to school, this is going to be an amazing place for them.”
Aisha Abudallah, the proprietor of Merowa Junior School, expressed her gratitude for the transformation:
“We are so grateful to 4040 for giving our school a new and fresh look.”
The day’s spirit was captured best by one of the pupils who participated in the clean up.
“I encourage you to clean your community to prevent diseases and to make your environment shine again.”
The UN General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed September 20 as World Cleanup Day. The world is invited to observe the Day through activities aimed at raising awareness of the role of cleanup efforts in sustainable development and of the importance of tangible reductions in waste pollution.
We are grateful to all our volunteers ,teachers , children , and partners who contributed to this effort. Together, we have created brighter, cleaner, and more inspiring spaces for children to learn, dream, and thrive.
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On Saturday, 29th November 2025, Merowa Junior School in Kibuli came alive with colour, music and laughter as the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation (4040) hosted its first-ever Angaza Day. From early