Supported by Planact the Social Employment Fund (SEF) in Gauteng, the Greening and Environment team in Wattville took the initiative to clean a dumping site that was very close to a residential area and next to a gravesite. The area posed a severe health risk due to an unbearable smell and overgrown grass, which affected the residents and the street vendor’s business.
The team faced significant challenges, particularly when community members continued to dump waste even after the initial cleaning efforts. Undeterred, the team persevered, returned, and cleared the entire area.
The team had to find creative solutions to get rid of the organic waste; they started by digging four feet deep to bury it. They also made contributions to purchase refuse bags for the litter. They then approached the local waste collectors and successfully requested that they collect the bagged waste.
Through their dedication, the team transformed the former dumpsite into a mini park. They repurposed debris found on-site to create pavements and planted flowers, turning the area into a safe and beautiful environment. The team plans to pave the entire area and plant more flowers.
Please watch impact video of SEF Greening and Environment in Wattville, Benoni.