Once a beautiful and tranquil attraction, the Kenmare Kloof has transformed into a polluted and neglected public space due to the influx of squatters in recent years.
People from as far as Rustenburg, Germiston and Pretoria flock to the Kloof to perform spiritual and traditional rituals, with some having set up and also made permanent homes while others use this space as a hideout from law enforcement and conduct illicit activities.
• Also read: Kenmare Kloof: Municipality to the rescue?
According to Mogale City Local Municipality’s communications officer Refilwe Mahlangu, this situation has become problematic as this unauthorised occupation and activities taking place have led to the violation of several municipal by-laws, including the following:
• Environmental by-laws: The Kloof’s natural beauty and unique natural water stream have been compromised. In addition to illegal dumping that occurs in the area, invasive alien plants, particularly Black Wattles, have also taken over the Kloof.
• Health by-laws: Unsanitary living conditions pose significant health risks to both the squatters and the public. It is also worth mentioning that illegal camping in the Kloof, religious gatherings, events and ceremonies of more than 500 people without the municipality’s approval is a by-law infringement.
• Biodiversity: The municipality has discovered numerous snares indicative of poaching which further endangers some of the unique species.
• Water, air and noise pollution: The Kloof and surrounding areas are experiencing increased levels of pollution from the burning of firewood, plastics, tyres, etc. An alarming number of drownings have also been reported, most of them related to religious ceremonies that take place in the Kloof. Intending to curb and discourage this unauthorised use and occupation of municipal land, Public Safety officials together with by-law enforcement officers and police have, in recent months, conducted raids on the piece of land.
Mahlangu further warned that these by-law enforcement efforts will be ongoing while underlying issues contributing to this situation are addressed.
“Working alongside key role players, the municipality remains committed to maintaining the beauty and safety of its public spaces for all residents to enjoy.”
