The reservoir, painted to resemble a soccer ball, is a tourist attraction.

The campaign was led by the Mbombela Accommodation Association. The aim was to educate the community and stakeholders about the importance of keeping the environment clean and working together in ensuring a healthier, greener town.

More than 20 people were part of the initiative.

Read: Waste-collection area creates foul smell for residents

According to Riana Joubert, chairman of Mbombela Accommodation Association, the clean-up created a healthier environment in the city. “This is a perfect area to attract tourists, which is good business for the accommodation sector, however, it is difficult for us to take guests here for a good scenic view. This place has turned into a dumping side. We have a problem with noise pollution and litter. I ask the community not to litter at the reservoir.”

The team managed to fill a skip and collected glass bottles for recycling.

“The view from here remains breathtaking and we would like to encourage other businesses to get involved and potentially help with sponsorship to improve this tourist attraction. We are hoping for signage and steelwork frames for the deck area,” said Joubert.