Over the past two weeks, the Local Development and Economic Civil Association (LDECA) have been working in conjunction with the Eldorado Park community to beautify all recreational facilities within the area.

Two weeks ago, the LDECA initiative “Operasie Skoon Maak” kicked off in Extension Nine where they have attempted to restore the ‘Jungle’ back to its former state.

Following the first operation, they took to the Eldorado Park Stadium in Cumming Road, where LDECA and the community cleaned up the once desolate tennis courts.

LDECA intensified its efforts in keeping Eldos clean by taking on the entire stadium which houses a soccer, tennis, hockey, cricket and netball field.

These have been largely deserted and disused prior to 1994, approximately 23 years ago, according to Majiet Amien, the LDECA chairperson.

If you are equipped with the knowledge of the history of the facility as well as the brilliant sportsmen and women whose talents shone here, it is almost unimaginable to see the state the fields have deteriorated to.

These grounds have now become a hide-out for drug, alcohol and substance abusers, because of the lack of regular maintenance.

According to LDECA, they are concerned about the lack of interest shown by the community, in particular, the youth and are calling on residents to join the clean-up campaign.

They believe that coordinated efforts can result in a cleaner environment in which all can take pride. Plans are under way to drive the youth away from all the anti-social and criminal ills that have taken hold over the area.

An encouraging scene was witnessing as a five-year-old boy and an 80-year-old granny rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty in order to keep what belongs to them, clean.

On July 8, LDECA moved “Operasie Skoon Maak” to a playground in Extension Two which has turned into a dump site. LDECA will continue to revive recreational facilities, to improve the general aesthetic of our community.

Residents eager to lend a hand are asked to contact Majiet Amien on 072 842 2373.

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News site 1: Westside-Eldos Urban News, News site 2: Soweto Urban News