Some residents of Black City in Nyanga spent their Saturday tidying up the streets and open spaces in the community.
This was part of an initiative launched by the local South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) branch and community members.
Residents said there were too much crime, dirt and poverty in their community and they decided to do something about it.
Khaya Mbaswana, the Sanco chairperson in Black City, said the goal of the campaign was to beautify their area, prevent opportunities for disease to spread, and to encourage residents to keep their area clean.
He added that they also wanted to launch an anti-crime campaign in December.
“We also have a problem with poverty in our areas. These are things we want to deal with as community. We cannot fold our arms while flies and rats have made our homes theirs,” he said.
Mr Mbaswana called on the the 14 different areas of Nyanga to stand together against crime and other social ills facing the community.
“In December we should all be up against crime. We want to really start fighting crimes.
“We hope what we are doing today will also inspire others to assist with projects such as this.
“You cannot think properly in a dirty place like this. It affects the mind,” he said.
He said he was glad to see people volunteering.
Resident Xolani Sifo who was not part of the campaign due to work commitments, commended those who had taken up tools to clean the area.
“They are doing a good job for us all. This must be commended. I would have been part of them but I come from night shift. But next time I will join them,” he said.