AfriForum erects ‘litter monument’ for Dihlabeng’s failures
The AfriForum branch in Bethlehem today erected a symbolic litter monument in Lughawe Street to highlight the Dihlabeng Local Municipality’s continued failure to properly provide refuse removal services. Residents are outraged by the litter that continues to plague the town while the Municipality simply looks the other way.
The monument, which consists of a wooden and wire structure filled with litter that has been lying around in the area, was erected to raise awareness about the extent of the problem.
According to Christa Ikking, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for the Highlands, the problem has been ongoing for years. “AfriForum has written to the Municipality numerous times over the past two years, as well as provided input during annual IDP meetings. We have expressed our concerns about pollution, fire hazards and the increase in pests that this garbage brings. Unfortunately, our cries for help fall on deaf ears every time,” says Ikking.
This is why AfriForum is taking a clear stance. “Rubbish that is not collected and removed is increasingly being set on fire, which poses a huge risk to businesses. Rat infestations are still increasing in Bethlehem, and the pollution of our water sources is becoming a threat. By simply removing the refuse regularly, several problems can be addressed immediately.”
According to AfriForum, the lack of service delivery is all the more incomprehensible because the Municipality already has the necessary equipment and personnel.
“There are workers who have to pick up litter in the streets daily and the Municipality has a working garbage truck. Why can’t the business area be kept clean?” asks Ikking.
AfriForum calls on the community to stand together and make their voices heard and demand basic service delivery. It is time for the Municipality to fulfil its constitutional duties. Visit www.wordlid.co.za to get involved with AfriForum and make a real difference.
