Community adopt ‘forgotten’ intersection

Hailing from Hazyview, Mpumalanga, Jonathan Etherington of Ebotse has for the past nine years watched with dismay as the intersection of Pretoria Road and Fifth Avenue became increasingly overgrown and unkempt.

As the situation worsened, Etherington grew fidgety and forced to face a decision. He could either complain about the problem or become part of the solution.

Etherington chose the latter and in December founded Clean Projects.

Boasting more than 50 members, the team of volunteers descended on the intersection, armed with mowers, black bags and unbridled eagerness to beautify one of the city’s busiest roads.

“We thought cutting the grass and creating a water-wise mound consisting of various succulent plants would do the trick,” said Alison, Jonathan’s wife and project co-ordinator.

“But we soon identified other projects that needed our urgent attention if we wanted to achieve our goal.”
Meeting once again, this time with paint and paintbrushes in tow, members set out to paint railing and curbs.

“The area is looking magnificent and the support from local business has further helped us to clear out the overgrown gutters leading to the stormwater drainage system,” she said.

Motivated by the hoots, toots and waves from motorists and members of the community, Clean Projects has extended its work, introducing learners from local schools to the initiative, allowing them to be part of the process.

“If we want to see a change in our community as we need to encourage everyone to be part of the solution,” said Alison.

“I believe in involving kids in clean-up projects not only teaches them about the importance of keeping our environment clean but instils a culture of being responsible citizens.”

As the fruits of the labour are starting to spread their roots, members hope to extend their projects to other areas of the city.

“The vision is to beautify ill-maintained intersections to places of natural plant growth, which subsequently only require regular maintenance,” she said.

“We hope that the initiative will encourage communities and businesses to adopt these areas to not only ensure that it remains in a good condition but build on to what we started.

“We want the community to take ownership of the city, truly making our home a place to be proud of.”
For more information or to become part of Clean Projects, contact Alison on 083 497 0610.

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