By Hlengiwe Mfeka
Like many Durban towns, Amanzimtoti, a once-pristine coastal south Durban area, is now grappling with the scourge of illegal dumping. Residents, frustrated by the lack of effective waste management, are taking matters into their own hands by implementing clean-up initiatives.
Gugu Vilakazi, speaking on behalf of the residents, said: “We have tried everything, but it’s like fighting a losing battle. We have even caught people dumping in broad daylight, but they just shrug it off.”
Professor Khangwelo Musetsho, an environmental scientist at the University of Limpopo, identified illegal dumping as a pressing issue in South Africa. “It’s not just an eyesore. It is a serious threat to our ecosystems. When waste is not disposed of properly, it can contaminate soil, water and air, leading to devastating consequences.”
The Amanzimtoti Ward 109 Councillor, Menzi Manqele, has initiated awareness campaigns to educate residents about illegal dumping, acknowledging the need for further action. “We require a multi-faceted approach that involves both community engagement and law enforcement. We need to work with local businesses and residents to identify hot spots and develop strategies to prevent dumping,” he said.
Sandile Dlamini, a 56-year-old resident, said that stricter penalties are needed to deter dumpers.
“We have tried to be nice, now it’s time to get tough. If people know that they will face serious consequences, they will think twice before dumping,” he said.
The eThekwini Municipality has promised to take action, with spokesperson Gugu Sisilana urging residents to report perpetrators and take responsibility for their waste.
“We cannot do it alone. We need the community’s help to keep our environment clean and safe,” she said.
The municipality has also pledged to increase surveillance and enforcement in affected areas, but residents said they are losing patience.
