City commends communities stepping up for cleaner neighbourhoods
23 April 2026
The City of Cape Town’s Urban Waste Management Directorate would like to thank and recognise the many community groups, organisations and residents who have taken the initiative to organise community-led clean-up events in their areas.
So far in the current financial year, the directorate has supported 80 community-led clean-ups, through the provision of refuse bags and the removal of bagged waste for disposal.
These clean-ups are an important example of how communities can work with the City to improve local cleanliness outcomes and push back against illegal dumping.
‘We want to sincerely thank every community group, organisation and resident who has stepped forward to make a difference in their area. Cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods are not only built through municipal services, but also through active community ownership and pride in shared spaces,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.
Community involvement remains one of the most effective ways to improve the condition of public spaces over time. When residents are visible and active in caring for an area, it can help to build a stronger sense of ownership, discourage illegal dumping, and increase the likelihood that dumping and littering behaviour will be addressed.‘When communities get involved, it sends a strong message that neglect and dumping will not be accepted as normal. It also helps to create an environment where residents are more likely to report illegal dumping and work together to protect the areas they live in,’ said Alderman Twigg.
Other community groups and organisations interested in arranging City support for a clean-up initiative can access the application form and guidelines on the City’s website.
END
Published by:
Media Office, City of Cape Town
