In the Mfuleni area, young residents, urban farmers, and water activists have taken on a more visible role in protecting the Kuils River. Through collaboration between the city and a local non-profit organization, interested community members have gained the necessary knowledge, tools, and capacity to combat pollution and restore healthier river systems.
The City's Water and Sanitation Directorate joined forces with the Environmental Monitoring Group (EMG) to prepare four middle schools in Mfuleni for participation in a mini participatory action research (PAR) process. EMG guided young activists along the banks of the Kuils River, helping them identify problem areas and environmental challenges. The group then analyzed and prioritized the identified issues for discussion with relevant stakeholders.
In addition to research work, EMG organized a localized cleanup campaign during which 28 bags of rubbish were successfully removed from the waterway. An audit of the 2669 items collected showed that plastic constituted 62% of the total waste.
These initiatives have contributed to strengthening local community involvement within the Kuils River Basin Management Forum, reinforcing commitment to environmental conservation. Zahid Badroodien, an advisor to the City's Water and Sanitation Committee, noted that in partnership with organizations like the Environmental Monitoring Group, they are working to build a community that understands the value of environmental protection. He emphasized that the goal is for every resident to possess the knowledge to actively participate in protecting urban rivers for future generations.
He also highlighted that such initiatives allow community members to contribute to restoration efforts by addressing water pollution problems through local waste removal programs. The integration of local knowledge about social dynamics proved crucial as it effectively informs strategic dialogues aimed at the long-term restoration of the Kuils River ecosystem.
Mandi Mussuris from EMG stated that it is critically important to maintain community participation across all areas. She expressed the view that forums (such as river basin management forums) and opportunities to voice concerns are too often only available to residents of affluent areas. She added that achieving a society based on equality requires universal access to clean drinking water, decent sanitation, and a sustainable environment. Achieving this vision requires providing every citizen with a platform to express their opinion, and she expressed hope that this initiative has significantly advanced their shared path toward this goal.
