Tsakani – Langaville Ext 3 CPF members recently joined forces with community members of Ward 81 to clean the area, which is plagued by long grass and litter.

The initiative comes after growing concerns from community members.

CPF member Sonto Molotshwa explained that the initiative of cleaning the local open field is also to prevent criminal activities.

“Three years ago, a Grade 12 learner was killed in the field and left there.

“We have pleaded with the municipality for years, asking them to clean the area for us, but we’re always told that there is a limited budget.

“For years, we have taken it upon ourselves to maintain the area every now and then to prevent others from getting hurt,” explained Molotshwa.

Molotshwa cited that their initiative received support from their ward councillor, Jerry Bulala.

“The ward councillor did not just support us, he assisted and further saw the need to clean other areas of Langaville.

“The act was done in protection of our children and members of the area,” she added.

She further cited that the open field is used by everyone who stays in the area and serves as a footpath to their homes.

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She also mentioned that school children pass daily on their way to and from school.

Molotshwa highlighted that when the grass is long, it is not easy to spot an individual walking through the grass, which raises concerns.

“Criminals can start robbing people when the grass is too long, taking children’s school bags. Last year, an elderly man was stabbed and robbed of his belongings.

“We would really love to receive assistance from the municipality because we try to maintain the area, but that is not enough,” Molotshwa said.

An enquiry about the matter has been sent to the municipality.