To All Citizens: Please Help Prevent Uncontrolled Wildfires
As the dry and windy season continues, citizens are encouraged to contribute to preventing wildfires and by so doing protect property, life and the environment during this high-risk season. According to Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services Communications Officer, Mandla Dlamini, over the past weeks, the City of Manzini and the region at large have witnessed a concerning rise in wildfire incidents; from small brush fires to larger blazes threatening residential areas. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain outbreaks, however, the challenge is still persistent as weather conditions continue to exacerbate the situation. One of the key preventive measures is to avoid using fire as a means for vegetation overgrowth removal. Burning vegetation overgrowth is a dangerous practice in the city. The communications officer states that most urban wildfires originate from such activities. The Municipality reminds citizens that, whilst property maintenance is essential, removal of vegetation overgrowth on vacant plots and other open spaces through burning is prohibited in the city. Section VII of the Urban Government Regulations, 1969 says “no person shall make or cause or permit to be made a fire in such manner as to endanger the safety of any person, building or property”.
Residents are also encouraged to report any open burning to the Fire Services through their toll-free number (933) or the Municipality’s 24/7 call centre (800 2004/2505 7000). Citizens are also urged to dispose of ash properly. Improper ash disposal can easily ignite wildfires. Always use an ash pit to dispose of ash safely. Those who smoke are urged desist from throwing cigarette stubs out the window of moving vehicles. Lit cigarette stubs can start fires, especially during dry conditions. Those who roast mealies along the streets are also urged to ensure proper disposal of ash. Citizens are also encouraged to utilise fireplaces safely. Avoid overloading fireplaces or wood stoves, as this can cause uncontrollable fires. Always extinguish the fire before going to bed. It is also important that the use of heaters is carefully monitored. Never leave heaters unattended or use them to dry clothes. Do not leave heaters running overnight.
…KEEP MANZINI CLEAN, EARN MONEY: VISIT THE BUYBACK CENTRE
The Municipal Council of Manzini encourages all residents and surrounding communities to continue making use of the city’s buy back centre for selling recyclable waste materials. This initiative not only contributes to maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment but also provides a viable means of earning extra income. According to the latest reports from the buyback centre, a significant amount of approximately E90,000 was paid out to individuals who brought their recyclable waste in June alone. The highest volumes of recyclables received were cartons (42kg), followed by paper (13kg), plastic (8kg) and a mixture of scrap metal, batteries, cans and plastic bottles; with a total weight of 71,634kg. The Municipality is excited by the dual benefit of recycling as it helps keep the city clean as well as provides residents with a financial reward for their efforts. By participating in the recycling programme, residents of Manzini city and nearby communities can contribute to environmental sustainability and improve their financial well-being.
The Municipality of Manzini invites all citizens to join this green initiative and make a positive impact in the city. However, it is essential to note that not all materials are accepted at the buy back centre. Items such as copper, water taps, water meters, fire extinguishers and others are excluded in order to prevent theft and protect essential services for the community. Other waste recycling centres nationwide are encouraged to follow suit and avoid accepting such materials, which often result from theft and disrupt vital services for residents.
…VENDORS CONCERNED ABOUT RISE IN ILLEGAL VENDING, SUGGEST SOLUTION
Vendors who are recognised and fully permitted by the Municipal Council of Manzini to conduct business on the city’s streets, bus rank and official marketplace have raised concerns over the increasing number of illegal street vendors in the city. They have called on the Municipality to intensify surveillance against such practices, stating that illegal vending is detrimental to their businesses. During an open discussion dubbed “Vendors Indaba” held last month at Zakhele Community Hall, vendors recommended that the Municipality create a night vending opportunity, formalise and permit those who operate illegally to conduct their business from 6pm onwards. The Indaba was organised by the Municipality and facilitated by COSPE, a non-governmental organisation. The event aimed to provide a platform for dialogue, collaboration and insights amongst vendors. Participants engaged in extensive discussions on various topics, particularly the challenges they face whilst conducting their trade in the city. They also explored potential solutions to these challenges, seeking to enhance the overall informal business environment in Manzini.
…APPRECIATION TO INDLOVUKAZI FOR SUCCESSFUL ELDERLY HEALTH DAY
The Municipal Council of Manzini extends its deepest gratitude to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi for a successful Manzini Health Day which was delivered at the Millennium Park last Saturday in partnership with Philani Maswati Charity Organisation; whose patron is Her Majesty. The event provided free medical services to over 1,000 elderly citizens from the City of Manzini and surrounding communities. During the event, the elderly received a wide range of medical services including dental health check-ups, ear infection check-ups, optometry, arthritis treatment, diabetes management, hypertension screening, breast, cervical and prostate cancer diagnosis, skeletal disorder treatment, influenza vaccination, skin disorder treatment and physiotherapy. A dietician was also available to provide valuable nutritional advice. The elderly citizens expressed their profound appreciation for the gesture, stating that the event not only addressed their immediate health needs but also provided them with much-needed reassurance and support.
Once again, the Municipality remains profoundly grateful to Her Majesty for her kind gesture and unwavering support for senior citizens. The Municipality further extends appreciation to health sector stakeholders for their commitment in ensuring each elderly citizen was afforded attention and care despite the massive numbers. Recognition and appreciation also go to the national Government for her critical role in providing medical services and ensuring safe transportation of the elderly to and from their homes.
