The Lekwa Local Municipality (LLM) launched Operation Shanela in Ward 1 on September 8, an initiative aimed at promoting cleanliness and eradicating illegal dumping.

Executive Mayor Sifiso Mngemezulu and Mapaseka Molaba, MMC for Community Services and Safety, launched the operation. According to Lubabalo Majenge, communications officer for the LLM, Operation Shanela is a cleaning campaign designed to encourage the community to take pride in their surroundings.

“The campaign seeks to restore dignity, improve public health, and create a safe, welcoming environment for residents,” stated Majenge.

According to Majenge, the operation will continue across all wards to benefit as many residents as possible. In his address, Mngemezulu said that cleanliness is the foundation of a healthy and dignified community.

He explained that Operation Shanela is a call for all residents to join hands with Lekwa to keep wards free of illegal dumping. Molaba explained that this campaign was not only about cleaning, but also about restoring pride in communities and teaching future generations the importance of caring for their environment.