The City of Cape Town has thanked community groups and residents for organising 80 clean-up events over the current financial year.
Its Urban Waste Management Directorate, which provided refuse bags and waste-removal support, said the community-led initiatives demonstrated effective collaboration between residents and local government in improving neighbourhood cleanliness and combating illegal dumping.
“We sincerely thank every community group, organisation and resident who has stepped forward to make a difference in their area,” said Grant Twigg, Mayco member for Urban Waste Management. “Cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods are not only built through municipal services, but also through active community ownership and pride in shared spaces.”
Community ownership key to long-term success
According to the City, community involvement is one of the most effective approaches to improving public spaces over time. Active resident participation helps build stronger ownership, discourages illegal dumping and increases the likelihood that inappropriate waste-disposal behaviour will be addressed.
“When communities get involved, it sends a strong message that neglect and dumping will not be accepted as normal,” Twigg said. “It also helps to create an environment where residents are more likely to report illegal dumping and work together to protect the areas they live in.”
Community groups and organisations interested in arranging City support for clean-up initiatives can access application forms and guidelines on the City’s website.
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