Marlborough residents clean up heavily littered Admiral Tait Bridge

Peter Tanyanyiwa Suburban Reporter

Marlborough residents recently came out in full force for a large-scale clean-up operation targeting the heavily littered Admiral Tait Bridge area.

The Marlborough Residents and Ratepayers Association (MRRA) organised the clean-up operation in collaboration with Exodus & Company Real Estate and the City of Harare to not only to restore the environment but also raise awareness on the dangers of illegal waste disposal.

Residents and volunteers convened at the Pachena Road Bridge dumpsite where they received a briefing on the operation’s objectives.

Volunteers set out to clean several spots known for rampant dumping including the Admiral Tait Bridge and multiple locations along the watercourse leading to the Marlborough wetlands, with the ultimate goal of rejuvenating the area’s natural beauty and water flow.

A prominent member within the MRRA Mrs Joyce Mtshani Khumalo said the series of cleanups they have been undertaking, supported by Exodus & Company Real Estate, marks a pivotal moment for Marlborough as the community bids to reclaim their neighbourhood.

“We are not merely cleaning our surroundings, we are reclaiming our dignity as residents.

“Illegal dumping has marred our community and poses serious health risks,” she said.

Mrs Khumalo urged Marlborough residents to take responsibility and become stewards of the environment in their neighbourhood stating, “Together, we can transform Marlborough into a cleaner, greener living space.”

The clean-up campaign was held amid increasing concerns regarding environmental degradation, particularly with the rainy season approaching, which could exacerbate the pollution issues if left unaddressed.

On its part, the MRRA plans to engage the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) to enforce stricter regulations and fines aimed at deterring future illegal dumping.

The volunteers worked diligently and their efforts resulted in the removal of a significant amount of debris and waste from the waterways, with hopes that this initiative will inspire ongoing community involvement in protecting the environment.

Mrs Khumalo emphasised the need for sustained action.

“We want Marlborough to be marvelous again.

“This is just the beginning, we must change our community’s attitude towards waste management and environmental stewardship,” she said.

The MRRA encourages residents, corporates and other organisations doing business in the suburb to participate in forthcoming clean-up activities as part of a broader initiative to combat illegal dumping.