eThekwini warns against festive season solicitation by waste staff
As holiday refuse services continue uninterrupted, the City is warning residents not to give in to gift or cash requests from waste management workers.
The eThekwini Municipality has reiterated that Waste Management Directorate staff are strictly prohibited from soliciting gifts from residents during the festive season, warning that any such conduct will be investigated and may result in disciplinary action.
Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana stressed that while the festive season is traditionally a time of generosity, residents should not feel pressured to give anything to refuse collection workers.
“While this is the season of giving, Waste Management Directorate staff are strictly prohibited from soliciting gifts, including money, from residents,” said Sisilana.
She urged residents to report any staff members who attempt to solicit gifts. “Residents who are approached by staff for gifts are requested to take note of the staff member’s registration number and report the matter via email for further investigation and possible consequence management,” she said.
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Sisilana also warned the public to be on the lookout for individuals posing as municipal employees. “Residents are also advised to be cautious of impostors posing as Waste Management Directorate workers attempting to solicit gifts,” she added.
The Municipality emphasised that refuse removal services will continue as normal throughout the festive season, including on public holidays, and that residents should therefore not feel obligated to reward workers for services that are guaranteed.
Operational staff will remain on duty to ensure uninterrupted refuse collection, even though Waste Management Directorate offices will be closed on 25 and 26 December 2025 and on 1 January 2026. Sisilana also reminded residents that keeping the city clean remains a shared responsibility. “Keeping the City clean is a collective responsibility,” she said.
Residents are encouraged to report any incidents of gift solicitation or illegal dumping by contacting the Municipality on 031 311 8804/36 or by emailing dsw@durban.gov.za.
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