Long plagued by illegal dumping, open burning of waste, and neglected land, the Rabie Ridge community received a renewed sense of hope when Gauteng MEC for Environment, Ewan Botha, returned to the area on January 28 to deliver on promises made to frustrated residents earlier this month.

Read more: MEC steps in as Rabie Ridge battles illegal dumping crisis

The visit followed Botha’s initial oversight engagement on January 13, during which residents voiced growing concerns over the rapid spread of dumping hotspots, with waste piling up week after week and posing serious environmental and health risks. At the time, the MEC committed to working with the community to restore cleanliness and dignity to the area.

Residents turned out in large numbers to hear the MEC’s update, as he announced the launch of the Environmental Waste Property Care (EWPC) initiative, a programme expected to employ about 100 residents to combat illegal dumping, rehabilitate affected land, and promote environmental awareness.

Beyond cleaning efforts, Botha said the initiative would also open doors for economic opportunities, enabling residents to start small businesses linked to recycling and environmental management once dumping sites are rehabilitated.

Also read: Mayibuye residents take a stand against illegal dumping

He further urged community members to take collective responsibility for protecting their environment, emphasising that government intervention alone would not be enough to permanently solve the problem.

Following the MEC’s first visit, residents, together with waste management company Pikitup, rolled up their sleeves and began cleaning several dumping hotspots. While these areas were cleared, illegal dumping continues in some sections, highlighting the need for sustained intervention and community education, a role the EWPC programme is expected to fulfil.

During his January 28 return, Botha assured residents that the department would monitor the rollout of the initiative and committed to visiting Rabie Ridge again to assess its progress.

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Rabie Ridge community leader George Henry speaks on the Gauteng MEC for Environment Ewan Botha’s visit to the community. Video: Comfort Makhanya. #Midrand #Rabieridge ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Community leader George Henry, who has been vocal about the dumping crisis, welcomed the intervention.

“We would like to thank MEC Botha and the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment team for their visit to Rabie Ridge,” said Henry. “It was encouraging to see the commitment to our community first-hand. The commencement of the EWPC project is a major step towards a cleaner, greener future for our neighbourhood.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Gauteng MEC for Environment Ewan Botha addresses Rabie Ridge residents during his return visit on January 28, where he outlined plans to tackle illegal dumping and create job opportunities. Video: Comfort Makhanya. #Midrand #Illegaldumping ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

For more on the MEC’s visit and the EWPC rollout, grab a copy of the next edition of the Midrand Reporter.

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