Caging the dirt problems in IY

The Hout Bay Men's Shed (HBMS) has embarked on a project to address the litter crisis in the community by installing new dirt cages.

The steel cages were built and erected around bins holding rubbish to prevent stray dogs from rummaging through waste, leaving a mess and attracting rodents.

Locals were facing several problems, and the HBMS team seemed to have come up with a solution to combat the problem ("Organisation looking to cage dirt problems in IY", Sentinel News, June 24, 2025). 

Richard Butterfield, a member of the HBMS, confirmed that the first cage was installed around one of the problem dump sites in the IY community.

"We have now completed this cage at one of the problem dump sites in the area, and the intention is to stop dogs tearing the bags so that the daily council pick up can happen with only bags to be picked up and no mess scattered," he said.

He further added that the initiative not only aimed 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.

The Tambo Street Depot site has caused many concerns for locals over the years, due to "ongoing dumping" creating headaches for surrounding residents, he said.

Ayanda Mchune, who lives close by, said the new cages were a blessing in disguise and hopes they can help with the fly problem at her home.

"Everywhere you turn, there are flies because of that site. You arrive the one day, there is a pile of rubbish, and few moments later, after the animals were there, there is dirt everywhere, and that is how the flies start," she said.

Ms Mchune, who has three young children living with her, said she was delighted with the new cages and applauded the efforts of the HBMS team.

"Thank you to the team because we have to live in those problems and you don't have much people coming in here trying to solve things like this," she said.

"The council just collects and collects, but doesn't help put things in place to come up with plans that will last longer."

Community leader Kenny Tokwe said IY residents were welcoming the new cages with open arms and also expressed his gratitude towards the HBMS team.

"This is a great initiative in Imizamo Yethu that has been started by this amazing team from HBMS and the whole idea is to promote a clean environment for our beloved community," Mr Tokwe said, adding that he wished to see the City as involved in IY.

"I wish they can be 100% involved by doing some awareness campaigns in our community and also provide dirt bags, enough for the community to use in order for us to help prevent this problem," he said.

At the same time, Mr Tokwe also commended the efforts of individuals in the community and others involved with trying to keep IY clean.

"Community volunteers such Ukuphila that wonderful work in the community for free and they only want to make IY a better place, these are the real heroes," Mr Tokwe said.

The new dirt cages measures at 6m by 3m and stand 1.2m high with a concrete slab forming the base, ensuring easy maintenance through occasional washdowns, and the structure has been securely locked, allowing only designated council personnel active access for daily collection.

"The IY community has given great assistance. The plan now is for this to work efficiently and then with council, we want to motivate for several of these cages to be erected in IY to replace all the dump sites and clean up the whole of IY and get rid of rats, lessen hygiene issues and give IY residents dignity as well as better health," Mr Butterfield said.

Ward councillor Roberto Quintas said the latest efforts to tackle the waste out in IY was "encouraging".

“It is really encouraging to see what looks like a very successful venture in terms of waste management in Imizamo Yethu," he said.

Mr Quintas said a public-private partnership, such as the one between the City and HBMS, appears to be an "effective waste management strategy".

"I’m certain that our Solid Waste Management will monitor the pilot to establish efficacy, and if it is implementable elsewhere in Hout Bay and the city," Mr Quintas said, adding that the cages were on city land and would be managed by the City.

HBMS is still appealing to residents of Hout Bay for contributions. 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, said Mr Butterfield.

"Furthermore, opportunities exist for businesses and organisations wishing to advertise on the cages, turning community service into visibility," he said.

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