RESIDENTS of Old and New Tafara are rallying together as part of a community partnership aimed at addressing the pressing issue of waste management and safety in their neighbourhoods, it has emerged.
The initiative, led by the Old Tafara Council Waste Management and Recycling team, is supported by private entities Geo–Pomona and Bitumen, which have been contracted to clear waste from hazardous, illegal dumpsites using excavators and loaders.
This weekly cleaning operation has seen an enthusiastic response from the community, particularly as concerns about safety rise due to the increasing number of muggings and criminal activities associated with neglected alleyways.
Rex Chikoti, a prominent local resident and advocate for community safety, expressed his gratitude for the initiative.
“It’s heartening to see our community coming together to tackle these issues through voluntary efforts,” he stated.
“Clean environments lead to safer neighbourhoods, and this is a step in the right direction.”
Many of the dumpsites in question are not just a result of careless residents, but also stem from the actions of local business owners and vendors, including public bars that disregard proper waste disposal protocols.
This negligence has resulted in alleys becoming notorious hotspots for crime, particularly those near schools and clinics.
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“These areas are not just unsightly; they pose a danger to our children and the elderly,” Chikoti noted.
Ward 20 councillor Mercy Kasvosve has been vocal about the need for stricter regulations and community accountability.
“We need to work together with residents and business owners to ensure that these areas are adequately maintained. We’re not just cleaning; we’re creating a culture of responsibility,” she explained to NewsDay Weekender.
Kasvosve also mentioned that there are ongoing discussions to potentially close off some of the more dangerous alleyways to reduce exposure to criminal elements.
“Closing these alleyways can significantly reduce crime and create safer paths for our children and residents,” she said.
Similarly, ward 9 councillor Prince Mutebuka emphasised the importance of collaboration between the council and the community.
“This is not just a council initiative; it’s a community effort. We’re encouraging residents to report illegal dumping and work with us to create safer spaces,” he said in a recent interview.
Maganizo Vissencio, a member of the Ward 9 Development Committee, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of community engagement in the success of the initiative.
“We need to educate our community about the importance of proper waste disposal. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about changing mind-sets,” he stated.
As the cleaning operations continue to gain momentum, the partnership between residents, local authorities, and private entities marks a significant step towards a cleaner, safer Tafara.
The community’s active involvement underscores a collective commitment to not only beautifying their environment, but also safeguarding their neighbourhoods from crime and disorder.
