By KOPANO MONAHENG
SOWETO is one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations, attracting tourists from across the world. Despite its rich history and cultural significance, many parts of the township continue to struggle with illegal dumping and litter.
This is why Pikiup is going around the city encouraging school-kids, the community and everyone else to help clean up the city. Speaking during the Mandela Month 67 Minutes campaign at Pimville Primary School, was legendary South African musician Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse. He said residents needed to take responsibility for keeping their communities clean.
“Well for me, the realisation that Soweto is becoming a dump was important for me to engage with the Pikiup and the executive mayor in particular,” he said.
“Some of us live here,” he stressed. “Soweto can improve and we must improve it because we have tourists coming here every day. This campaign is very critical for me, is one of the most important because I live here I don’t think I have a choice to go and live elsewhere other than to engage with the people and ensure Soweto becomes the most livable place the world can see.”
He went on to say that people cannot expect the government or municipalities to do everything in cleaning the city while everyone continue to litter and dump waste illegally.
Hotstix spent time interacting with the learners, encouraging them to take pride in their school and the community they live in. He reminded them that a clean environment begins with individual responsibility and small daily actions.
Hotstix also described the clean-up campaign as one of the most meaningful initiatives because it focuses on improving the place that so many people proudly call home.
As a singer he believes that he has a responsibility to help make Soweto a better place rather than expect someone else to do it. By working together with the City, community members and partners such as Pikiup, they can transform Soweto into one of the cleanest and most liveable places in the country.
Bukelwa Njingolo, managing director of Pikiup, said they’re willing to work with anyone who shares their vision of creating cleaner, safer communities. She said people can transform illegal dumping sites into functional spaces such as community food gardens, car wash businesses, recreational areas, and more.
