Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Mamotse Njiva-Lebajoa.
Due to the ongoing lack of refuse removal services in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality’s Ward 4, the Namibia community has witnessed a surge in illegal dumping sites. The informal settlements’ open spaces have become makeshift dumping grounds, rendering playgrounds in Namibia Park unusable for children. The Democratic Alliance (DA) is committed to holding the municipality accountable for this failure and will push for immediate, regular refuse removal services to restore the safety and cleanliness of Namibia Park and its surrounding areas. Please see the pictures here, here, here and here.
The area, once a haven for children, is now overrun by drug abusers and criminals, leading to a spike in crime. The absence of adequate municipal services has forced residents to discard their waste indiscriminately, further exacerbating the situation. This failure in service delivery has deprived children of their right to safe play areas and exposed them to dangerous elements.
If this neglect continues, the very children who are losing their safe spaces may be drawn into criminal activities, influenced by the very individuals who have taken over their playgrounds. The municipality must address this issue promptly by increasing police presence and implementing community programs to deter criminal activity. Additionally, investing in proper waste management services and recreational facilities can help restore safety and security in the area for the benefit of its residents, especially the vulnerable youth.