City cleans up illegal dumping hot spots near Ivory Park schools
The municipality needs watch dogs to help eradicate this problem
The pledge to keep the City of Joburg clean has extended to Ivory Park residents as they embarked on the executive mayor’s campaign to clean up illegal dumping hot spots near schools in Ivory Park, on January 14.
A day before schools opened, ANC councillor Yoliswa Twala brought together party members, city officials and residents to clean the area, focusing on areas around Ebomini and Mikateka primary schools.
“At our community meetings, we always encourage people not to litter in public spaces. We also highlight to them the disadvantages of littering, but nothing ever seems to change,” said Twala.
“The municipality needs watch dogs to help eradicate this problem. We need people who will guard these open spaces.”
Mikateka Primary School’s principal Mandla Sibanyoni spoke his mind about the illegal waste at his school gate and on corners.
“This is a health hazard. Learners from the school might want to pick something from the rubbish, which contaminates the environment and creates a breeding ground for mice and rats.”
Mangaliso Madi, executive member of the branch, said the City needed to set stronger by-laws when it comes to illegal dumping and make an example of one person so others could learn.
“We understand that dustbins are stolen, but in the end that is not an excuse to dump on the roads so cars cannot pass.”
Pierre Nel, CoJ citizen relations manager, added that each ward has inspectors who are responsible to spot service delivery issues within the community.
“The environmental health department also came to inspect and educate the community about the dangers of illegal dumping, health wise.”
Pontsho Matshele, founder of Anele Innov8tors, said the company deals with waste in a different way by turning waste into job creation.
Matshele said they create job opportunities for young people while working towards a healthy environment.
“People can come to our centre to throw their waste there instead of throwing it everywhere. We are based in Mayibuye.”
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