Clean-up drive in Theresapark revives community spirit and public spaces in Ward 98

The recent grass-cutting and clean-up initiative in Oribi, Theresapark, is more than just a maintenance project.

Spearheaded by Thabo Moroane, the newly appointed Ward 98 committee member for the Environmental and Agricultural Portfolio, the effort has helped restore dignity, safety, and pride to a neighbourhood that had been battling neglect.

After months of overgrown grass turning once-vibrant public spaces into eyesores, the intervention came as a welcome relief.

Residents’ growing frustration and environmental concerns prompted Moroane to conduct an official environmental assessment.

The results led to a call to action that was met with prompt response from the Tshwane metro.

“A tractor was dispatched just days after the request was submitted.

“It’s encouraging to see such swift action from the municipality, especially when it directly addresses the concerns of our community.”

But while the initial phase of grass cutting was successfully executed, Moroane stressed that the work is not done.

He is now pushing for the municipality to remove the cut grass and attend to cleaning pavements and public cabs, which are the essential steps to complete the clean-up process and prevent the build-up of further waste.

“These collaborative efforts show what we can achieve when the community and the metro work together. But sustainable impact requires follow-through,” he said.

Unkempt public areas don’t just affect the aesthetics of a community, they also pose real dangers.

Overgrown grass can become a breeding ground for pests, contribute to littering, and even provide cover for criminal activities.

Moroane believes that clean, well-maintained spaces play a crucial role in preventing crime and improving residents’ quality of life.

“By maintaining our public spaces, we reduce crime hotspots, promote public health, and foster a stronger sense of community ownership,” he said.

Since the intervention began, Ward 98 has seen a noticeable increase in resident participation and reporting of neglected spaces.

Moroane attributed this to renewed confidence that their voices are being heard.

“We have seen more people stepping up, reporting issues, and even volunteering in clean-up efforts. It’s a sign that people are regaining trust in the system and taking pride in their surroundings again,” he said.

For residents who still doubt the effectiveness of reporting issues, Moroane offered reassurance.

“I understand the frustration. But we’re working hard to change that narrative. Every report is logged, tracked, and followed up. Communication and transparency are central to how we operate.”

The clean-up campaign is just one part of Moroane’s broader environmental agenda for Ward 98.

He is currently addressing other persistent challenges such as illegal dumping, stormwater drain blockages, and pollution.

“These issues require a multi-faceted approach.

“We are launching community awareness campaigns, initiating more clean-up drives, and working closely with the municipality to improve waste management and infrastructure maintenance.”

Residents are encouraged to continue reporting problem areas using municipal systems or by forwarding reference numbers directly to Moroane. Whether by WhatsApp, email, or formal reporting platforms, every complaint helps shape a cleaner, safer Ward 98.

“The people of this ward deserve well-maintained spaces. And with their continued participation, we can achieve lasting change,” he concluded.

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