The proceedings kicked off with local and provincial governmental officials, members of parliament, various stakeholders and community members gathering at the Tsakane Hall on Sunday morning.
Participants were then handed overalls and cleaning tools and split up into six groups, led by top government officials, to tackle six identified problematic illegal dumping spots in the area.
This relay focuses on partnerships with municipalities and establishing cleaning in communities. It officially started at the City of Tshwane after the provincial launch on January 31.
According to MEC Lebogang Maile, all regions in Gauteng will have a chance to participate in this clean-up relay, which runs for an entire week after the launch and thereafter municipalities must sustain the momentum and address challenges met as cleaning initiatives continue.
Commenting on the BkB relay and partnering with municipalities, Maile says they are very excited to see BkB gaining momentum and growing.
“Our relationship and partnerships with municipalities will not only entrench cleanliness in communities, but will also encourage communities to join initiatives of cleanliness in their communities and play a meaningful role in keeping their environment clean,” he says.
Local resident Lili Mahlangu (65) of Koni Street happily watched as the illegal dumping site was cleared of dirt.
He says he is so thrilled to see this place being cleaned up as it has become unbearable living in the area because of the rubbish and the stench in the air.
“We are always complaining about dirt but our community members still continue to dump.
“It’s sad as some of these people are individuals we know, while others come from others areas to throw their rubbish here.
“As it is hot it then stinks so badly that you can’t even open windows or doors, flies are everywhere and you even see rats running everywhere and crossing over into our yards,” he says.
