​City of Joburg employees came out in force during the annual Environmental Day at George Goch and Mangolongolo informal settlements to inform the community about the importance of having a safe and clean environment.

Environmental Health Manager Paballo Sekokotla said: “The main aim of the event is to educate the community on how to take care of their environment and health by addressing the issues they are dealing with and finding solutions for them through pest control and paraffin safety in order to avoid dangerous outcomes."

Both settlements had Pikitup assisting the community by cleaning up the areas that had a vast litter. More City employees did a door to door tour by engaging with community members about ways to prevent paraffin leakage that may cause fire by giving the community safety lids to prevent accidents with children.

Fumigation machines were used to clear out the rats that were causing havoc and loopholes were drilled to bring out rats that were hiding in certain areas in the ground as residents had issues with their food and clothes being destroyed by rats.

Children at Bumbanani pre-school at Mangolongolo informal settlement were also not left out on the day's activities. Ayanda Masondo of Environmental Health informed them about the importance of recycling renewable materials and the benefits of having a clean environment by not littering.

EMS Community Educator Dineo Maphahlele engaged with the children on what to do during a fire outbreak and how to avoid fire. They were also taught to memorise the fire emergency number. Children were also taught about hygiene and how to stay clean to avoid germs by Health Promoter Jabu Magubane.

The day ended with loads of fun and games with the children.