A City-supported community partnership is helping Kraaifontein residents improve sanitation habits, reduce water pollution and better protect local sewer infrastructure and waterways.
Residents in Kraaifontein are receiving practical education around water conservation and sanitation through a partnership between the City of Cape Town and local non-profit organisation Manjiya Economic Development.
The organisation is one of 22 community-based groups supported through the City’s Water and Sanitation grant funding programme, which focuses on promoting responsible water use, protecting sewer infrastructure and reducing pollution affecting local waterways.
Manjiya Economic Development has facilitated eight workshops across Kraaifontein and Scottsville, focusing on the behavioural issues contributing to sewer blockages, sanitation challenges and environmental pressure within the Diep River catchment and surrounding communities.
According to the organisation, the programme has already reached more than 900 residents, including school learners and young adults.
The workshops aim to help communities better understand how everyday waste disposal habits affect sewer systems, public infrastructure and local ecosystems. Topics include the causes of sewer overflows, responsible sanitation practices and how residents can report service-related problems to the City.
The sessions are designed to remain practical and community-focused, ensuring residents can apply the information directly within their households and neighbourhoods.
Zahid Badroodien said partnerships with community organisations play an important role in extending the City’s reach while supporting localised conversations around sanitation, water pollution and infrastructure protection.
He added that initiatives such as these also create opportunities to support residents who are passionate about dignified sanitation and sustainable water use practices within their communities.
According to Luntu Manjiya, the City’s grant funding enabled the organisation to implement impactful school and community engagement activities while strengthening awareness around water conservation and sanitation behaviour.
As water security and environmental sustainability continue becoming increasingly important challenges in urban areas, the programme highlights how community partnerships and grassroots education can support long-term behavioural change and stronger environmental stewardship.
