Residents of KwaNdokwenza in the Kwazakhele township of Gqeberha say the self-funded clean waste management initiative known as “Ubuhle beGqeberha” has delivered noticeable improvements to townships across the Nelson Mandela Bay metro over the past five years.
The project began in response to rising hygiene concerns caused by proliferating illegal dumping sites in many townships around the city. It has since expanded to cover more areas and is currently led by 45 unemployed women from the community, primarily from Ward 18 in Kwazakhele. These women, who are local residents, focus on raising awareness about the dangers of illegal dumping and encouraging residents to maintain cleaner environments.
Community support for the educational and awareness efforts has been described as “absolutely incredible.” Despite this enthusiasm, the volunteers face significant risks. They operate without protective gear, personal protective equipment (PPE), or essential tools for handling waste at cleaning sites. Participants have reported physical harm to their bodies from the work and exposure to hazardous items, including condoms and other unpleasant waste.
The group also contends with broader environmental problems in the area, such as regular sewage spills that produce heavy odors. During heavy rains, blockages cause dam overflows into residential zones, making it difficult for young learners to reach school safely. The women emphasize that their primary motivation is to protect their children from illness and danger, stating that a clean community reduces health risks.
One participant described the conditions as “not nice at all” but affirmed their determination to continue: “We soldier on regardless… if our community is clean, our community will be free from dangers and our children will not [have] sicknesses.”
The Nelson Mandela Bay metro maintains that there are no budget constraints this financial year, with all wards allocated funding for refuse collection. Refuse removal occurs on a weekly basis, and officials argue there is “no justification” for illegal dumping in the metro. They attribute much of the problem to residents waking up late and missing scheduled collections, leading them to dump waste illegally instead.
Municipal representatives acknowledge their responsibility to protect the city’s environment and note ongoing efforts to address illegal dumping through various programs. However, the region continues to grapple with more than 2,000 illegal dumping sites, which pose serious health hazards. Inconsistent waste collection services and a shortage of designated dumping sites remain key concerns for many residents.
Despite the lack of external funding and persistent challenges, the community of KwaNdokwenza and surrounding areas has pledged to sustain “Ubuhle beGqeberha” and its mission of promoting cleanliness and safety through grassroots action.
