According to the metro, the city is determined to minimise the scourge of rodent infestation even more.
Speaking during the kick-off of the Rodent Control Community Programme, Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Health in Ekurhuleni, Clr Makhosazana Twala, says this will be achieved through the introduction of 400 volunteers that will represent the programme.
Twala said that the programme is an extension of the city’s Integrated Rodent Control Strategy, which has led to the decline of the rodent population in Ekurhuleni thus far.
“In 2012 we began with an interdepartmental approach, where various role-players such as Waste Management Services, Human Settlements, Water Services and the EMPD teamed up with Environmental Health to tackle the elements which create a conducive environment for rodents to survive,” said Twala during the event.
“Instead of embarking on once-off roadshows to drive awareness, we are now getting community members directly involved to ensure sustainable success,” she added.
Twala explained that a total of three to four volunteers will be deployed to all 101 wards within the city, and will be tasked with conducting door-to-door visits, assessing and educating households on rodent control.
“They will work hand-in-hand with our environmental health practitioners by conducting research, by-law education, identifying and reporting contributing factors such as illegal dumping,” continued Twala.
She added that the city will be testing the project in the next 12 months; however, she is confident that it will contribute positively towards eradicating rodents in Ekurhuleni.
