Community Spirit Tested as Dumping Returns to Cleaned Area

Volunteers from Clean Queenstown, a long-standing local non-profit dedicated to keeping the town litter-free, spent their Tuesday under the scorching sun cleaning the route leading to Bonkolo Dam — only to be met with disappointment after discovering that the very area they had cleared last week had once again been used as an illegal dumping site.

Despite the setback, the group pressed on, focusing on major hotspots and working tirelessly until they reached the Queenstown Power & Yacht Club gate. Their determination to keep Komani’s natural spaces clean highlights the ongoing struggle against illegal dumping that continues to plague the area.

Illegal Dumping Threatens Environmental Progress

Illegal dumping has become one of the biggest environmental concerns in Komani and the greater Enoch Mgijima Municipality. Despite continuous efforts by volunteer organisations like Clean Queenstown, fresh piles of refuse often appear within days of a cleanup.

The volunteers expressed frustration but refused to give up. “It’s heartbreaking to see our hard work undone so quickly,” one member said. “But we remain committed to creating a cleaner, safer Queenstown for everyone.”

Local Support Makes a Difference

The team also extended their gratitude to Mr Sean Russell, who offered logistical support by transporting collected refuse to the official landfill. His assistance made it possible for the volunteers to remove a large amount of waste that had built up along the dam access route.

However, morale took another hit when the group noticed a few vagrants tearing open the refuse bags they had just filled. Despite the discouragement, the volunteers agreed that their work remains essential — not just for aesthetics, but for community pride and public health.

A Call for Community Responsibility

Clean Queenstown has urged residents to act responsibly and dispose of waste through legal channels, rather than dumping it in public spaces. The organisation continues to advocate for stronger municipal enforcement and better waste management education in schools and neighbourhoods.

The group’s consistent cleanups over the years — covering areas from Komani’s CBD to Bonkolo Dam and residential suburbs — have made visible differences in many spaces. Still, members believe that without wider community cooperation, progress will be limited.

“Tomorrow’s another opportunity,” the team posted on social media. “Every bag of litter we remove is one step closer to a cleaner Queenstown.”

Local Pride in Action

Clean Queenstown’s unwavering commitment reflects the best of Komani’s community spirit. Their resilience serves as a reminder that real change begins with local action — and that every citizen has a role in protecting the environment they share.