Mayor of Ekurhuleni spearheads a clean-up campaign
The event, which took place at Winnie Mandela Secondary School, brought the city together under the theme "Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future."
The City of Ekurhuleni, led by Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, visited the community of Winnie Mandela on February 3 for a clean-up initiative in commemoration of World Wetlands Day.
The event, which took place at Winnie Mandela Secondary School, brought the city together under the theme ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.’
This theme serves as a reminder of the vital role wetlands play in sustaining wildlife and the environment.
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Wetlands are crucial ecosystems that must be protected for future generations.
One of the biggest threats to wetlands is illegal dumping, particularly at water sites.
Many people are unaware of the severe consequences of dumping waste into wetlands.
Contaminants from these sites eventually flow into rivers, affecting water quality and requiring extensive purification processes.
Communities need to understand that environmental degradation, especially of vital habitats like wetlands, will ultimately have long-term negative effects on human health and sustainability.
Xhakaza urged residents to take responsibility for their surroundings and to stop illegal dumping.
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“World Wetlands Day is about raising awareness and preventing the increasing dumping of waste that harms our wetlands.
“It is up to us to ensure that all dams and water sources remain clean, as they flow into our rivers. We call on the community to put an end to illegal dumping,” said Xhakaza.
