MidWit neighbourhood team removes nearly 300 bags of waste to keep these two towns clean
AfriForum’s MidWit neighbourhood team, affiliated with AfriForum’s branches in Middelburg and eMalahleni (formerly Witbank), mowed and cleaned more than nine hectares of grass in various parks across these two Mpumalanga towns during May.
In Middelburg, the team focused on parks in Pongola Avenue, Sterkspruit Street, Olifant Street opposite Middelburg Primary School, Springbok Avenue and on the corner of Tamarisk Avenue and Vygie Street. After the parks were cleaned, more than 130 bags of waste were removed. Much of this consisted of litter, syringes and other refuse believed to have been left behind by drug users.
“This team does far more than simply clean up public spaces – they play an active role in combating the decline of Middelburg. The deterioration of the town is clearly visible, with drug users occupying and damaging public parks. By keeping these parks clean, safe and well maintained, undesirable activities are discouraged and steady progress is being made in reversing the town’s decline,” says Mark Salzwedel, Chairperson of AfriForum’s Middelburg branch.
In eMalahleni, the team focused on the entrance to the Witbank Golf Club in Lukin Street. Long grass was cut and raked in Gordon Drive, Worcester Street, Mona Street, Nita Avenue and the park in Rita Street. During these projects, 140 bags of grass and litter were collected and removed.
“The team is making a tangible difference in Witbank. Community members regularly express their appreciation by greeting the team warmly and sometimes treating them to refreshments. This is proof that residents want to see meaningful improvements in their environment. Ultimately, it is visible, sustainable change that will help address the town’s challenges and restore pride within the community,” says Sarel van Heerden, Chairperson of AfriForum’s Witbank branch.
AfriForum’s MidWit neighbourhood watch team has already begun repairing potholes in Middelburg and eMalahleni. Residents are encouraged to follow the team’s activities on the AfriForum Witbank and AfriForum Middelburg Facebook pages.
Join and get involved with your nearest AfriForum branch: Visit www.wordlid.co.za.
