DURBAN: Two previously illegal dumpsites in Durban have been converted into successful vegetable gardens. One of the sites is in the Birchwood area and the second is in the Mamdekazi district of the city.

The first project saw seven women from ward 13 successfully turn a dumping ground into a vegetable garden.

“We asked the ward councillor in Birchwood to utilise the site,” said local resident Khanyisile Thabethe. “Our request was accepted and it took us a week to clear the waste and rubble before we could prepare the site for planting.”

The second project in the western region is run by Joseph Nyide. He said: “Having a vegetable garden is one way to keep the area clean and protect the environment.

“I have received seedlings from a supermarket and the Area Based Management Unit.”

Some of the produce grown includes spinach, green pepper, carrots, beetroot, chillies, cabbage, onions, lettuce, and mealies.

Both sites are still seeking sponsorship of fencing to help keep livestock out and to protect the crops that are being produced.

Darul Ihsan Media Desk