Tembisa:Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining clean and safe environments at the community level. Speaking during the Love Your Street campaign in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, Ntshavheni encouraged local residents to take an active role in caring for their surroundings.

According to South African Government News Agency, Ntshavheni expressed her appreciation for the commitment shown by community members who volunteered to care for newly planted trees. She highlighted the partnership between government officials, civil society organizations, and residents in efforts to enhance neighborhood cleanliness and safety.

The Minister also urged the Ekurhuleni municipality to ensure adequate street lighting to facilitate safe community movement. She called on residents to avoid illegal dumping and to utilize the municipality's weekly refuse collection service. Ntshavheni is optimistic about the potential success of the 'Clean Cities and Towns' campaign, initiated by Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

Ntshavheni anticipates Ekurhuleni's participation in the Cleanest Municipality competition, which encourages maintaining clean and healthy environments. Additionally, several schools will engage in a Food Garden competition, with more expected to join. The government plans to involve businesses in contributing seeds to support community food gardens and environmental initiatives.

Last week, Ntshavheni addressed illegal dumping in Tembisa South as part of ongoing environmental improvement efforts. The recent discovery of women's bodies in Ekurhuleni adds urgency to the campaign's focus on safe, clean public spaces. Launched by The Presidency and the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) earlier this year in the Western Cape, the Love Your Street campaign aims to foster community pride and address issues like illegal dumping and overgrown greenery.

The campaign also seeks to transform neglected areas identified as gender-based violence and femicide hotspots into safe community spaces while raising awareness on reporting mechanisms and available services.