Mandela Day – 18 July 2012 – Kyalami Green Neighbourhood Project
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About 65 volunteers took part in the Diepsloot Clean Up on Mandela Day as the first initiative of the Kyalami Green Neighbourhood Project was rolled out. This event was organized by Kristin Kallesen of the Greater Kyalami Conservancy (GEKCO) Individuals and companies joined forces with approximately 200 Diepsloot community members in picking up litter. President of Noweto Business Chamber and Manager of the Diepsloot Mall, Mzolisi Mbikwana welcomed the visitors where the participants were to board taxis to Extension 1. They then joined forces with Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Hlengiwe Mkhize; Diepsloot Ext. 95 Councilor Rogers Makhubele; and the Community Works Programme in 67 minutes of community service in honour of Mandela’s 94th birthday.
“There was a wonderful vibe, and we enjoyed meeting our neighbours in Diepsloot” said Margie Donde, chairperson of the Greater Kyalami Conservancy (GEKCO). “The problems in Diepsloot are vast, but it felt great to help out even in a small way.” The taxi rank area was cleared as well as the adjacent streets. The volunteers also noted water leaks which have been reported to Joburg Water for repair.
“As Diepsloot is our immediate neighbour this was the perfect venue to launch the Kyalami Green Neighbourhood Project,” said Kristin Kallesen a representative of The Foundation for World Spiritual Unity. “We are facing social and environmental problems on a vast scale that can only be overcome through cooperation.”
Andrew Dicks of the Greater Kyalami Conservancy said “a big thank you to all of those who took part in this event and the sponsors who made it possible. I hope to see future events planned that will improve the lives of the Diepsloot community.”
Participating companies and organisations:
Greater Kyalami Conservancy (GEKCO)
The Foundation for World Spiritual Unity
Virgin Active Lonehill
Big Blue Clothing Company
Kyalami and Environs Residents and Owners’ Association (KEROA)
R.M.M. Building Supplies
Rhenosterspruit Conservancy
Peaceful Scapes
Earthworm Waste Management
East Rand Plastics – a division of the ASTRAPAK group
The Community Works Programme
City of Johannesburg – Environmental Education and Awareness
Pikitup
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