Organisation looking to cage dirt problems in IY

In a move aimed at restoring dignity and cleanliness to Imizamo Yethu (IY), the Hout Bay Men's Shed (HBMS) has embarked on a project to address the litter crisis in the community.

The HBMS has now started talks to build and erect steel cages around bins holding rubbish to prevent stray dogs from rummaging through waste, leaving a mess and attracting rodents. 

The cages are expected to measure 6m by 3m and stand 1.2m high. A concrete slab will form the base, ensuring easy maintenance through occasional washdowns, and the structure will be securely locked, allowing only designated council personnel active access for daily collection.

The initiative not only aims to beautify the neighbourhood, but also to ensure that the residents live in a healthier environment free from the dangers posed by stray animals and waste mismanagement, said Richard Butterfield, a dedicated member from the HBMS. 

According to Mr Butterfield, the cages will be built with an easy-access arrangement, and children will be able to toss their rubbish bags from all four sides of the cage.

"This passionate group, primarily composed of elderly men, is invigorating their purpose by rallying around a project that promises to yield tangible benefits for IY," Mr Butterfield said.

Currently, the area struggles with multiple dump sites where refuse is collected in council blue bags.

Naledi Mpshane runs a crèche from her home and a feeding scheme near the dump sites, but said the problem has been escalating, making it seem as if the whole of IY was turned into a dump site.

"Everywhere you go lately, there is rubbish and mess. Children are playing in it and adults are either walking through it or going through it for any valuables. It's like a new thing in IY," she said.

Ms Mpshane also suggested that more dump bins should be delivered to the area to accommodate the amount of rubbish collected daily.

According to Ms Mpshane, a lot of the problem is with residents as well, who continue to abuse the areas that have been marked as dumping sites around IY.

"There is one site that is so full, so disgusting with all the old food and rubbish around, nobody wants to go in there, not even the council, but our children go there and the people looking for food," she said.

"They end up making it look worse, so we need the help to address this before we are all sleeping under rubbish." 

Following approval from local council representatives, including ward councillor Rob Quintus, the initiative is set to kick off soon with the construction of a purpose-built waste cage.

Mr Quintas confirmed that the pilot concept has been "approved in principle".

"The establishment of a site and program is still underway, with the City department land custodian needing to provide permission once the site is determined. This is in progress, as is the planning around the collection of the waste. Certain factors need to be considered, such as access by community and service vehicles and future use of land, etc.," he said.

"The pilot they are wanting to test has been a process which I’ve assisted with in terms of connecting them to the correct officials and navigating the permissions of the City," Mr Quintas said. 

He said he also did not turn down the possibility of the pilot project being introduced in other problem areas if it proves to be a success.

"The City will support by permissions being granted for the erection of the structure on City land, as well as the collection of waste from the new type of container-cage. Once the efficacy of the pilot is determined, the City may look to the future in terms of making this pilot a model that can be rolled out on a mass scale and over multiple areas," he said.

HBMS also planned to engage with the community, schools, and churches to provide education on the cage’s intended use and benefits.

"This outreach aims to inspire locals to take part in the initiative, fostering a sense of responsibility towards their surroundings," Mr Butterfield said.

HBMS is looking to raise nearly R40 000 for each cage to be built.

"The Men's Shed is appealing to residents of Hout Bay for contributions, irrespective of size. The funds raised will not only support the initial construction of the first cage but will also pave the way for the development of additional cages across IY. Furthermore, opportunities exist for businesses and organisations wishing to advertise on the cages, turning community service into visibility," Mr Butterfield said.

To get involved or find out more about the project, call Richard Butterfield on 082 655 5427.