Tabisile Mahleka

Not only do you see the huge dumpsite when you get closer to the Kennedy Road informal settlement, but the toxic smell welcomes you first.

In most days when the weather is scorching hot, the smell becomes unbearable.

At first the residents at the informal settlement used to benefit from the dump when expired foods would be disposed and they would take home to eat. That continued for many years but when that stopped, the dumpsite only exposes the residents to health infections like asthma, tuberculosis, and sinusitis but pests and other insects as well.

Praise Majola, who has been residing in Kennedy Road informal settlement for more than 6 years says, the dumpsite was not as bad as it is now. The intensity of the air pollution is so bad that they cannot leave their doors open because the dirt goes inside the houses.

The residents complain of the negligence of their Councillor. He does not cater to their needs nor even show up, some has never seen him around.

Xoliswa Mdunge, 22, who lives with only her younger brother and cousin state that its not easy with a toddler as they easily get sick because of the things they get from the dumpsite. “Nobody cares about the conditions we’re living under. Not even our Councillor,” said Mdunge.

The shack dwellers only hope for a better future with a cleaner environment for next generations to come.

Picture: Tabisile Mahleka