Clr Elize Aucamp of Emfuleni Ward 45 writes:

As refuse collection in Emfuleni grinds to a near halt, particularly in Ward 45, the illegal dumping sites are becoming more, not less. What used to be occasional eyesores have now grown into permanent fixtures in our streets, on open land, and near homes.
When residents report these illegal dumps, the standard response from the MMC for waste is that the municipal bylaws are “letting us down.”
But blaming legislation is a tired excuse. The real failure is in leadership, follow-through, and service delivery. I want to know what happened to the much-publicised Operation Phakama Vaal cleanup campaign. Residents were hopeful that it would finally bring the relief our ward so badly needs. But, just like the 2024 promise made by the premier that Skippie Botha would be resealed, Operation Phakama Vaal has so far amounted to nothing more than a public relations exercise.
Ward 45 residents are not asking for the moon, just the basics: regular waste collection, a response to reports of illegal dumping, and visible progress on the ground. Instead, they’re met with silence, delay, or excuses. Emfuleni continues to disappoint the people of Ward 45. While politicians make announcements and cut ribbons, the rubbish piles up, reminding residents daily that in this municipality, less really is more.