The Municipality’s much anticipated Clean MyCity Programme was officially launched on Friday 7 March 2014, at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. It was followed by a clean-up operation at Mafumbuka High School in Umlazi’s C-Section which was led by Mayor James Nxumalo and members of the Executive Committee (EXCO).
The colourful launch was attended by representatives from different sectors of society including business, taxi industry, traders and government and municipal departments. A pledge was signed by all parties committing themselves to take action to ensure that Durban is kept clean and well maintained.
The Mayor termed the launch as a “historic moment” for eThekwini and spoke of the many interventions that are currently underway as part of the Clean My City Programme. “We are saying no to drugs, and have a zero tolerance on crime. This is an opportunity for all to get involved and clean up, so that we see a tangible difference,” he said.
The programme was started by Mayor Nxumalo in May last year and weekly clean-up operations are taking place in various parts of the City.
“Our message to the public is that we want to partner with you in caring for our City, but at the same time we want to issue a warning that unbecoming behavior is definitely not acceptable. This cuts across all sectors of society including business, street traders, taxi industry, motorists, commuters and the general public. Owners of buildings who fail to maintain them must not expect mercy from the Municipality,” said Mayor Nxumalo.
Braving sweltering heat, the Mayor led a team of dedicated stakeholders to Umlazi where they cleaned up a piece of land at the school, which had become a dumping ground and a hiding place for criminals. The plot later was handed over to the nearby Khanana Community Centre to plant vegetables for senior citizens. Mayor Nxumalo also donated implements, seeds and food parcels to the Centre.
Community member Khethi Sithole said, “This is such a great campaign. We are seeing a difference in the City but it’s great that the Mayor has visited us. It means a great deal to us that our area was chosen as we experience the challenges of dumping and litter.”
“I will be an ambassador to our community and I am glad that the youngsters are learning and spreading this message.”
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