MORE than 50 volunteers, workers from Area-Based Management and residents gathered in Wentworth this morning for a comprehensive clean-up drive.
The event, dubbed the ‘Wentworth Massive Cleanup,’ is aimed at transforming areas that have been plagued by illegal dumping for decades.
Order of the day
The day began early in the morning, with groups of volunteers fanning out across the neighbourhood.
Equipped with gloves, rakes and trash bags, volunteers targeted notorious dumping hotspots in the area.
Reverend Gavin Samuels said churches have also joined forces to take a strong stance on illegal dumping.
“We are in the process of launching campaigns aimed at raising awareness on illegal dumping. Residents must take up this initiative and ensure that they keep their communities clean,” said Samuels.
Also read: Residents take initiative to clean up Merebank sports ground
Another resident said illegal dumping has been a persistent issue in Wentworth for years.
” We want to show everyone that this is our home, and we care about keeping it clean,” he said.
The clean-up was organised in collaboration with the South Durban Basin Area-Based Management, local organisations, eThekwini Municipality and churches.
A member of the Heal Wentworth organisation, Austin Kinsey, said they want to create an opportunity for the community to come together and address the impact of illegal dumping.
“It’s about more than just picking up trash; it’s about fostering a sense of pride and ownership in our neighbourhood. We cleaned the Hime Street Park because it is used by the youth and the community,” said Kinsey.
Success of the clean-up
- Throughout the day, the volunteers worked tirelessly, collecting heaps of rubbish that had accumulated over the years.
- From old mattresses to broken appliances, the amount of waste removed was staggering. Yet, the mood remained upbeat, with residents of all ages participating in the effort.
- Volunteers filled dozens of bags with waste, which were then loaded onto trucks provided by the eThekwini Municipality.
Leader of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance Desmond D’sa was ecstatic about the transformation made in Wentworth.
“The transformation is evident. Streets and vacant spots that had once been eyesores are now cleared of debris and litter.
“This is just the beginning. We need to keep this momentum going and ensure that our community stays clean. We also need to continue educating people about the importance of proper waste disposal to prevent illegal dumping in the future,” said D’sa.
He said the clean-up has also strengthened the community’s bonds and patriotism.
“The clean-up was a great success. It was a reminder that when we come together, we can overcome any challenge. We hope this is the start of a new chapter for Wentworth, where our community takes responsibility for our environment and makes our area a better place,” he added.
The clean-up will continue throughout this afternoon in Wentworth and its surroundings.
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