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Jenny Phillips, of Crystal Park, writes:
In February, when there was a feeling of new beginnings in the air, I made my way to the shops.
I stepped out of my back gate which opens onto a municipal area that contains a gym.
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I was happy to see a group of people singing as they collected rubbish that accumulated for some time.
They waved at me and I asked them if they were from the municipality.
They told me they were members of the ANC Youth League who formed an Environmental Input Group with the aim of raising awareness in the community regarding environmental issues.
The municipal area, that contains the gym, has been neglected in recent times.
Occasionally, the grass is mowed and rubbish removed, but not on a regular basis.
Initially, this area contained three tennis courts which gradually deteriorated over time.
Some time ago, gym equipment was installed, which is popular and attracts many people on a daily basis.
The tennis courts are now mostly used for other activities such as soccer games, skateboarding, keep fit classes etc.
I asked the group if there were any waste bins provided in this area and was told they requested the relevant municipal department to supply bins to this area, but to no avail.
It would seem to be a prerequisite in any public area to provide waste bins, to, at the very least, encourage people not to litter.
The main aim of this enthusiastic and community-minded group is to educate the youth on environmental issues by giving talks and holding meetings to encourage everyone to take personal responsibility for the cleanliness of the environment.
The name of the leader of the group is Wiseman Mkhonto and his cell no is 079 051 0120.
READ:
#knowyourbenoni: Youth addresses environment and social issues
He would be happy to speak to anyone wishing to know more about his group and who may be interested in lending support or becoming involved in his activities.
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