For one day each year, citizens from around the world roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty for World Clean-Up Day, observed globally on September 20.

Read more: Westdene Spruit battles with raw sewage

In alignment with this initiative, on September 27, the Friends of Alberts Farm Conservancy (FOAFC) committee, supported by Lew Geffen Sotheby’s Realty, SCP Security, and residents, gathered at Alberts Farm Conservancy to participate in Spruit Clean-Up Day.

FOAFC committee member Marianne Coetzee said that the Braamfontein Spruit was the longest stream in Johannesburg, flowing through numerous suburbs, from Northcliff all the way to Midrand.

“The clean-up day is designed to encourage as many residents, community groups, and stakeholders as possible to participate in cleaning the spruit in their area, either on the same day or within the same week,” she said. “The objective is to highlight spruits and rivers, their importance, and their protection as vital green belts in the city.” The last week of September also marks the celebration of World River Day, observed on September 28.

Also read: What kind of pollution flows through the Westdene Spruit?

This year, volunteers turned out in full force for the annual clean-up. “Litter and other waste were collected in and around the spruit, and the water channel was cleared along its length,” Coetzee said.

To wrap up a hard day’s work, volunteers were treated to Krispy Kreme doughnuts. The FOAFC committee extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, supported, and sponsored the event. “It was a tremendous team effort on our road to cleaning up, restoring, and protecting the spruit,” said Coetzee, adding that “working together to make a difference is what keeps Alberts Farm Conservancy safe, clean, and beautiful.”

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