On Tuesday, 28 April 2026 the Cape Winelands District Municipality’s (CWDM’s) Municipal Health Services (MHS) supported the Keep Mbekweni Clean initiative started by the Mbekweni Recycling Project. They conducted a Waste Management and Recycling Awareness and Education session (Freedom Waste Dialogue) at the Be Part Yoluntu Centre to commemorate Freedom Day. The initiative targeted youth from local primary and high schools, with approximately 30 learners aged between 11 and 15 years that attended.
The session promoted meaningful conversation about proper waste management, recycling, and to showcase which items can be recycled, both within school environments and the broader community. The session addressed key environmental and public health concerns, including the negative impacts of illegal dumping and the harmful effects of waste burning, which contributes to air pollution and may lead to respiratory and other health-related diseases.
“The initiative was well received and deemed a great success, demonstrating the value of community partnerships in promoting environmental awareness and fostering responsible waste management practices among the youth.” expressed Nosimphiwe Jiya (Environmental Health Practitioner, CWDM).
Other partners included Drakenstein Municipality, Manzi Water, Debonairs Pizza, Engen Mbekweni Convenience Centre and the Be Part Yoluntu Centre. All shared expertise, ideas and practical ways to address local waste challenges. In the spirit of Freedom Day, the message was clear: freedom comes with responsibility, and every citizen has a role to play in protecting the environment for current and future generations.
“Freedom is not only about our rights, but also about our responsibilities. As a community, we carry the duty to protect our environment, uplift one another, and build a cleaner, healthier Mbekweni for future generations.
Through initiatives like the Mbekweni Recycling Project and community clean-ups, we continue to turn freedom into action, creating opportunities, restoring dignity, and inspiring change”, said a representative of The Mbekweni Recycling Project.
The CWDM remains committed to empowering children and youth with the knowledge and skills to build a healthier, safer and more sustainable Cape Winelands District.
