Local businesses join in clean-up
Volunteers encourage all to do their bit to rescue filthy town
Several businesses voluntarily cleared illegally dumped refuse in a joint clean-up initiative in Ezibeleni on Saturday.
Resident Sinethemba Mfutwana, the brains behind the joint venture, said the purpose was to encourage public participation, especially among residents in the area.
“I want this to be an ongoing campaign for residents to be active in keeping a clean and decent environment,” Mfutwana said.
After approaching various businesses, more than 10 companies gladly jumped on board to support the cause, which included clearing up a nearby children’s park.
Speaking to some of the business owners who were part of the day’s programme, Anthony Marriot, of Superclean, whose company has been involved in various clean-up projects, said the initiative had gained ground, with more businesses and private people joining in.
“This started simply because we were tired of living in filthy, unhygienic conditions.
“It is simply not enough to blame the municipality for the current conditions. The community needs to take responsibility and ownership of our town.
“When Mfutwana asked if I was willing to be involved with an Ezibeleni area clean-up, I was delighted and very excited to be part of it. Well done to all who were involved.
“We now need to start a campaign against illegal dumping, as this is a huge problem in our whole town.
“This type of private cleanup action can be very expensive and all costs are carried by those involved.
“However, everyone can contribute to the cleanliness of our town by simply keeping their own areas in front of their houses clean.
“Do not put out your refuse if there is no service as the stray dogs rip the bags open. Contact your local councillor and get him/her to assist with problems. Remember, they are paid for it.
“These are simple, affordable things that we can all do.
“I love my town and community and want to contribute positively. I like to think of it as my way of protesting against the lack of service delivery without causing more damage,” he said.
As a business widely supported by the community, Yolo Lounge owner Zelalem
Wakjira said individuals and businesses needed to show that it could be done.
“We are trying to help and teach others that it is doable.
“We do not have to wait for the municipality because we need to take responsibility.
“The more we do this, the more it becomes the norm. The mandate is to have a clean environment and we are happy to be part of this movement.”
Sinethemba Kibido Sijila, of KBE, said the company was instantly interested in assisting.
“A service to the community is important because we are where we are as a business because of the community that supports us.
“There are many other community-based projects we have done. Anything that is of service to the people who are our biggest supporters is in our heart.
“For KBE, it was an easy decision, and we are excited because the directors of the project have exciting ideas going forward, so we will definitely be part of that too.”
Sean Russell, of Russell and Son Funeral Directors, who commended everyone involved for doing a sterling job, said a group of his staff members who were part of his ongoing cleanup projects had volunteered to assist, and he had sent out a truck and trailer as support.
“We are a local community and we love our town. Such projects are hugely important.
“We need to look at a green future for the country and while the municipality is struggling, we should do our little bit and encourage others to as well.
“At some point we have to believe the municipality will find their feet again, and when they do, we do not want our town destroyed.
“The ultimate goal is to try and find solutions for refuse collection because we have not mastered the art of it, regardless of the availability of trucks.
“The municipality needs to have new systems in place for refuse removal. We need to place emphasis on recycling.
“We need to find a broader solution for the dumping issue.”
Qaphela Fadana, of Q’s Black Refuse Bags, said: “I have always been motivated by clean spaces and clean energy. Clean environments have a way of giving some form of power, and doing this initiative was a way of giving people from Ezibeleni their strength back.”
Siseko Tshonti, from T.O.L Media, said: “We all grew up knowing Komani as a clean town and to see it deteriorate is not good. To participate in community work like this brings people together, and businesses as well, having one vision to improve in growth and keep our town clean.”
Other companies that took part were Herotel, Zeedo Plastic, KNX Enterprise, Proclean, Hi Tech Plant Hire, Twizza, Sigcau Accountants, Minister Photography and Cemforce, plus some residents.