Originally published on 30 January 2022

In Bhekuzulu, in KwaZulu-Natal, young people fixed blocked drains themselves, showing how strong community action can be.

What was the problem?

Bhekuzulu had lots of blocked storm-water drains, especially on the taxi route to Mpofini. Blocked drains caused bad smells and road damage, and the municipality had not responded to complaints. Residents were frustrated.

How did they solve it?

To solve the problem, Bhekuzulu's youth organised a clean-up to clear the blocked drains. With cleaning tools, they worked hard to stop more road damage. Mkhuliseli Mhlongo from the Salvation Army praised the volunteers and said the municipality should help remove the rubbish that was blocking the drains.

Siyanqoba Sibiya, a young volunteer, said they were proud and planned to improve road signs and markings with help from private donations. He said it was important to find new ways to solve service problems while still trying to get local government to do its job.

After the clean-up, municipal workers helped remove the debris, which was a small win for the community.

Acknowledgements:

Original article written by: Vryheid Herald

Photograph: Supplied by Vryheid Herald

Source

Get your community involved

Is there a community-driven group or caring business in your area? A dedicated group of committed people can effectively solve local problems.

Think about starting or joining community groups like a street WhatsApp group, residents' association, or community policing forum (CPF) to get help and to stay informed and involved in local issues.

How to set up a community group

How to start a WhatsApp group

How to start a residents' association

How to set up a community policing forum

How to set up a neighbourhood watch

How to organise community action

How to use media to create pressure for change

Know your rights – how local government works

It’s important to understand how your local government works so that you can work with them to support what they are doing while your community continues to keep them accountable and deliver services on time. Remember you have a constitutional right to many of the services provided by local government, as well as to accountability and transparency, wherever you live and regardless of how much you earn. It is also where money collected from taxes and rates goes.