From dumpsite to beautiful kasi park!

AN ILLEGAL dumping site has been transformed into a park in Soweto.

The City of Joburg officially launched and handed over the Moema Park on Friday, 1 March, in Orlando West, Soweto.

Ward 39 councillor, Lefa Modise said before the park was converted into a park, it used to look like a dumping site.

"Today, it's beautiful as it is because of the hard work and dedication not only by the city and its entities but the community as well. We've been involved in this piece of land and making sure that it's what it is today. There's room for improvement. We're calling upon the community to safeguard this land," he said.

Modise added that a lot can be done and invested in the land.

He said no one will misuse or abuse that piece of land.

"We've realised the influx of school people, especially children who sometimes use this facility as a hideout when they bunk school."

The councillor called upon abahlali not to allow pupils in uniforms to enter the park.

ALSO READ | Moegoe drunk driver goes to school!Opens in new window

"The community must ensure no children sit in the park until late at night. On Fridays, we'll see them coming with hookah pipes, doing as they please. We'll work with the park rangers, JMPD and community members to ensure the place is always intact," he added.

Community member, Mott Kekana thanked the councillor for the support he gives to Ward 39's residents.

"He's working so hard in our community. Whenever we call him, he's here for us. I'd like to thank City Parks for this park. It was a dumping area, today we have a beautiful park."

She recalled how the park used to be an open space, and they would play there as children.

Delivering the keynote address, Nelisiwe Baai, representing MMC Lubababalo Magwentshu, said they celebrate the City of Joburg for encouraging partnerships with tangible results.

After the official handover, trees were planted so they provide shade on hot summer days.