Bit by bit, Mbekweni’s wastelands are being brightened thanks to the devoted determination of Siyabonga Stengana.
He has captured widespread media attention in various national publications and will soon be featured in an episode of SABC’s long standing environmental conservation TV show 50/50.
Stengana is not only the journalists’ favourite, but has been sought out by international NPOs wishing to know more about his area of conservation.
“Well the vision has grown, and I’m quite overwhelmed by the influence it is having on other places across the continent, such as in Nigeria.”
With influence comes great responsibility, he declares. “I try to be consistent as much as possible. I have gone from 34 to 40 spaces that have been rehabilitated and upgraded in Mbekweni. I’m also very proud to have seen that this movement has spread to other townships in the Western Cape.”
Stengana’s uplifting attitude in constantly cleaning-up the streets he grew up in has caught on among the youth of his community. Schools that have been involuntary hosts for illegal dumpers, leaving nothing but debris, have also got down and dirty for a cleaner environment.
“I must say the participation has grown rapidly, which is so nice to see,” the conservationist enthused. “I’ve engaged with local primary schools on this. Our projects are part of the school premises and I am thrilled to see schools making a difference in the environment where they engage the kids in cleaning up.
“The children of Mbekweni are loving this initiative and yes, they do participate. Of course they honour this idea of cleaning up and talking responsibility. From what I see, they are very much inspired in this initiative which so fantastic to witness.”
Stengana started out with small contributions from locals who would sponsor a dash of leftover paint or scratch materials. He goes from door to door to ask his community’s input – not in rand and cents – but anything that could restore a sense of a unique culture to Mbekweni. Luckily growing sponsors have come to the party. “A guy, Colin Meilech from Krylic Paints, sponsored paints to maintain converted sites, which is so amazing.
“When I look at Mbekweni now and all the spaces we have covered, it makes me feel proud, optimistic and full of positivity for Mbekweni. It even goes beyond . . . it’s also possible for any township in the Western Cape.”
Confronted by the abundance of waste in some spots, Stengana almost found it difficult to imagine a better picture. “Sometimes I felt as if not much could be done to really improve them. But simplicity is key – as long as spaces are clean and tidy I’m happy.”
Many regard him as an artist. His Facebook profile is stylish, in which he engages with many talents.
“I had an opportunity and was invited to a Green Garden Day photoshoot campaign with a whole lot of guys from Switzerland.”
Stengana’s vision may soon be featured on screen since he has joined forces with local documentary filmmaker Bulelani Ndzuzo.
“The topic of the film is Mbekweni’s very own, very unique history and how this environment could be conducive to productivity in which growing culture of cleanliness is paramount.”
