Mbabane- In a powerful demonstration of environmental stewardship and community spirit, residents of Nkomazi engaged in a clean up campaign with Yibutse Green Action.
The initiative saw support from Komati Basin Water Authority (KOBWA) and Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA). The clean up campaign was aimed to address the increasing pollution and promote a healthier environment for both Nkomazi residents and wildlife.
Speaking during the campaign Musa Ndlangamandla, Yibutse Green Action Executive Director expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the folks of Nkomazi for such a great initiative. ” This initiative is a testament to the power of community and youth action tackling climate change.” Ndlangamandla added that beyond environmental benefits, such campaigns create employment opportunities for young people, fostering a sense of responsibility and providing valuable experience in environmental stewardship.
Phumzile Hlatshwayo, KOBWA communications officer highlighted the pressing health hazards by the pollution saying that the accumulation of waste not only affect the aesthetic value of natural resources but poses severe health risks to the community. ” Contaminated water can lead to diseases and the debris endangers the wildlife in the dam disrupting their natural habitat and leading to a decline biodiversity,” emphasized Hlatshwayo.
On another note, EEA representative Armstrong Sibandze pointed the legal implications of illegal dumping, stressing that engaging in illegal dumping is not just irresponsible but against the law. ” Those caught can face heavy penalties including fines and improsonment.” Sibandze added that illegal dumping severely damages the environment, killing plants and animals and contaminating water sources.
Meanwhile, local residents expressed their gratitude and support for the initiative. Musa Dlamini said, “seeing our young people take such an active role in cleaning up the dam is inspiring, it gives us hope for cleaner, healthier future for our children.”
Thabiso Mavuso from Gangakhulu stressed: ” This campaign has brought us together as a community. We are more aware of the impact of our actions on the environment and are committed to maintaining this cleanliness.” Mavuso went on to say it is vital to ensure water animals live side by side with humans. “Healthy ecosystems contribute to our own health and well-being providing clean water and balanced environment,” he said.
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