Public Service and Administration Deputy Minister Dr Chana Pilane-Majake led a successful clean-up campaign in Atteridgeville, west of Tshwane, as part of commemorating an annual World Mandela Day in honour of the late first black democratically elected President Nelson Mandela.
Atteridgeville is a township located in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and like many other townships in the country, Atteridgeville faces significant challenges related to illegal dumping. Illegal dumping of waste has led to the degradation of the environment in Atteridgeville because dumped waste blocks stormwater drains, leading to flooding and water pollution. Illegal dumping of waste poses a significant health risk to the community as the waste attracts vermin, such as rats and flies, which can spread disease. The smoke produced from burning waste can also cause respiratory problems.
Illegal dumping of waste creates an unsightly environment that can negatively affect residents’ quality of life. The waste can also discourage potential investors from investing in the area. Some residents may not be aware of the proper way to dispose of waste, leading to illegal dumping, therefore, education and awareness campaigns are needed to promote proper waste management practices. Another contributing factor is that Illegal dumping is often not punished, which encourages the behaviour. The lack of enforcement means that those who engage in illegal dumping are not held accountable for their actions.
Residents of Ward 51 joined their Ward Councillor Cllr Salaminah Moabelo and Deputy Minister Pilane-Majake in the clean-up campaign in Maude Street near the cemetery where illegal dumping is fast becoming a big problem.
Speaking to local media ahead of the clean-up campaign, Deputy Minister Pilane-Majake said: “Our focus is on how to get rid of illegal dumping sites. This is the beginning of the process to end littering and illegal dumping sites, if it can be a success in this township, that would be encouraging to note that illegal dumping can be eradicated.”
She further urged the City of Tshwane to make the clean-up campaign meaningful and sustainable going forward. According to the Deputy Minister, government alone cannot eradicate illegally dumped waste, but residents too should play their part by declaring war against littering and illegal dumping.
Ward Councillor Moabelo said: “Our message is clear to residents of this Ward (51) that we need to change the culture of littering and dumping, every day of our lives should be a Mandela Day, meaning that we need to keep our Ward, township clean daily.”
Nelson Mandela Day
On July 18, South Africa and the world remember the selfless leader who promoted equality and love for all people, irrespective of their race. Nelson Mandela, born on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, Eastern Cape, would have turned 105 this year if he were alive. Mandela passed away in his family home in Houghton on Thursday, December 5, 2013, at the age of 95.
Throughout the month of July, South Africans and people all over the globe are encouraged to dedicate at least 67 minutes of their time to do community work in celebration of the values and principles that Mandela fought and stood for. The 67 minutes symbolize Madiba’s years of selfless service to the people of South Africa and the world during his extraordinary life. Mandela spent 67 years of his life working to build a better life for all.
Today, South Africa is a new country where there is equal rights and justice for all, thanks to Mandela’s vision and leadership. Mandela’s legacy lives on, and his lifelong fight against discrimination, inequality and injustice continues to inspire people around the world to this day.
As we remember Mandela’s life and legacy, let us continue to work towards building a better world, one that is characterized by peace, love, and respect for all people regardless of their race, gender, religion or social status. Let us honour Madiba’s memory by dedicating ourselves to the values and principles that he stood for, and by working tirelessly to build a world that is more just, more equitable, and more united.
