~by Brown Mnisi
Pro-Nature Livelihoods Team
In recognition of International Biosphere Day and in collaboration with local partners, the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region facilitated a community river clean-up on 3 December at the Mohlatsengwane River in Malaeneng Village. The initiative formed part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen environmental stewardship and improve ecosystem health across the landscape.
More than 70 volunteers, together with K2C staff and local stakeholders, helped clear two priority sites along the river. A total of 109 bags of waste were removed, including 27 bags of disposable baby diapers, highlighting the importance of K2C’s Absorbent Hygiene Project and the urgent need for improved waste-management practices in the area.
The clean-up was followed by an awareness session focused on rangeland and river management, responsible waste disposal and the long-term impacts of pollution on community well-being. Representatives from the Feta-Kgomo Tubatse Local Municipality, notably Mr Lusufi and Teresa from the Solid Waste Department, addressed participants and emphasised the importance of community-driven environmental care. They also noted several waste-management challenges faced by the village, particularly the widespread disposal of baby nappies in rivers and grazing areas.
This event demonstrated how collective action can strengthen both ecological integrity and community resilience. As K2C continues to promote sustainable development across the Biosphere, partnerships such as these remain essential in building a healthier environment for future generations.