Ward 14 residents initiate clean-up campaign

KWEKWE –In an inspiring initiative, the proactive residents of Ward 14 have embarked on a mission
to eradicate illegal garbage dumpsites that have been plaguing their residential area.
Fueled by the desire for a safe pristine environment, these community members are leading the
charge towards fostering a cleaner and healthier living space for all.

Ward 14 residents initiated the clean-up campaign in line with the national Presidential proclaimed
clean-up campaign that is held every first Friday of the month.

Ward 14 comprises low-density areas of Msasa Park, Newtown, Golden Acres, Southwood, and the
mining compound of Roasting Plant.

Ward councillor Albert Zinhanga said the residents mobilised themselves and got resources from
Kwekwe City Council to roll out their ward-based clean-up exercise.

"Everyone in my ward is worried about the issue of garbage within their houses. We created a ward
strategic development group where the idea was agreed upon by everyone. We decided to have
clean-up campaigns every month end, rotating all areas which cover the ward.

“It is the residents who are pushing the clean-up campaign and as their councillor, I am just
championing the agenda. I want to thank residents of Ward 14 for the job well done, we can win the
issue of clearing dumpsites and have better service delivery in our ward," said Cllr. Zinhanga.

"Under the Clean Cities goals, as residents of Ward 14, we have taken this initiative to clear rubbish
and dumpsites every month end. As chairperson of the Gender Committee, I am happy with the
response of residents. We have youths, women, and men equally represented.

“We engaged residents of this area here in Newtown next to light industries advising them about
illegal dumping of rubbish but they are continuing with the bad habit. Some of the materials we are
using here, we purchased them with our funds and from stakeholders.

“We also received bin liners and gloves from Kwekwe City Council. The local authority also provided
a refuse tractor to collect the garbage,” he said.

The Wards Gender Committee chairperson Justing Chingovo said the primary objective of the
initiative is to have a clean environment in their ward and women who took part embraced the
clean-up campaign.

This is a noble idea in terms of having a safe and clean environment. As women, we should not
dump rubbish everywhere, let us use bins and wait for the council refuse truck to collect for proper
dumping. We risk having health outbreaks due to dumping of pampers in open spaces by residents,"
said Irene Zinyama.

One of the youths, Luckmore Mutatu said: "We are part of this programme because our councillor
and city council talk about a clean and litter-free environment. Myself and other youths we are here
today as leaders of tomorrow, we need to maintain a smart and clean ward. As Zimbabweans, we
should prioritise keeping our litter in appropriate places where the council can collect and dispose
without any problems," said Mutatu.