Where you see trash, the Community Works Programme (CWP) women see treasure.
The waste programme CWP was started in 2012 with 1 235 employees.
According to the Thaba Chweu CWP site manager, Lucas Malibe, when they started these plastic mats project, their aim and objective was to minimise waste in the Mashishing area and all the 14 wards.
“We use plastic waste we collect from the illegal dumping sites. We also give back to the community specifically on public holidays like Mandela Day; we had collected about 40 mats that we have handed over to the old aged centre, orphanage centres and needy residents.”
Mavis Mogakala is part of a group in the area that has trained more than 40 women to recycle plastic waste into mats, bags and other colourful accessories.
“We are working towards doing the right thing, so whenever we see plastic bags we pick them up; it has become a valuable thing now,” said another worker, Matilda Malapane.
The CWP also exchanges the mats to buy sanitary towels, and shoes for the orphaned children.
“Because of us, there are fewer plastic bags in the streets compared to before. The programme has helped.” Malapane said.
South Africa is one of the most populous nations that is still struggling to find efficient ways of managing its
waste problem.
“By doing this we educate people about recycling and its key elements, reduce, reuse and recycle, and initiatives like this help women find ways to earn an income and provide for their families,” Malibe added.
CWP is also doing a multi-sectoral approach in agriculture, environment, infrastructure, health and social sectors.
