Recycling puts food on the table
Recycling is not only good for the environment but is also a source of income for Philemon Mahlangu (53).
After losing his job at a cosmetics company in 2005, Mahlangu had no means to provide for his family .
He received many invitations to attend job interviews, but unfortunately was never offered employment.
Despite his situation, the KwaThema resident and family man still had a responsibility to feed his family.
It was later that year, he decided to start his own recycling business.
Mahlangu goes around the township, looking for scrap metal, recyclable tins, and glass and plastic bottles to sell, in order to ensure his family doesn’t go to bed hungry.
Mahlangu explained that his job not only puts food on the table, but creates a clean environment.
“My job also helps me clean illegal dumping sites that are seen on every corner in the township,” said Mahlangu.
Sadly, he said he has been labelled as mentally disturbed because of the overalls and boots he wears while on duty.
He further explained that another challenge he experiences in his business is the theft of scrap metal, which he has already packed and prepared to sell.
Ntombikayise Mnguni, a resident of Highland Section, said Mahlangu is doing a great job.
She encouraged him to continue with the job and praised his efforts to keep the environment clean.
