On the 26th of November 2025, the Khoroni Men’s Forum hosted a community-led clean-up and air quality awareness campaign at an abandoned public park in Orange Farm, bringing together 39 participants from community organizations and local partners. The initiative formed part of a broader effort to highlight how everyday environmental practices affect the air people breathe.
Illegal dumping and the burning of waste in the park have become common, releasing harmful smoke and pollutants that contribute to poor air quality and potential health risks for nearby residents. Community members worked together with support from City Parks employees to remove waste using shovels and basic cleaning equipment, helping to eliminate materials that often become sources of toxic smoke when burned.
The campaign also served as a platform for public education on air pollution and health. Organizers shared messages with residents, passers-by, and informal traders about how waste burning and unmanaged dumping worsens air pollution in the community. Partner organisations, including Isizinda Sempilo (Kliptown), Itsoseng Women Project (Orange Farm), and InTouch (Orange Farm), supported these efforts and helped spread awareness about protecting air quality.
Despite the large volume of waste limiting the planned dialogue sessions, the campaign successfully demonstrated how community-driven environmental action can directly improve air quality. By removing waste and encouraging responsible environmental behaviour, participants contributed to the shared goal of healthier air and safer living environments for communities across Johannesburg.
Key Outcomes
Lesson Learned
- Community action can directly influence local air quality.
- Environmental awareness works best when paired with practical action.
- Partnerships strengthen community impact.
What Stood Out
- Strong community participation.
- A neglected public space is becoming a site for environmental leadership.
- The link between waste and air pollution is becoming visible.
