City’s Solid Waste Depots Refurbished in the Last 20 Years

Back in the day, solid waste officials in the City were subjected to unsafe working conditions in dilapidated depots. All that has changed as solid waste depots have been refurbished and new ones constructed.

The modern waste depots have transformed from corrugated iron zinc to brick and mortar, with partitioned buildings consisting of administration offices, boardrooms, separate male and female ablution facilities fitted with showers, running water, fully furnished kitchen and locker cabinets where staff can safely put their personal belongings.

In the last 20 years, the City has built seven depots and three sub-depots across Ekurhuleni.

Mandisa Phosa, the City’s Head of Waste Management Services, said over the years their mandate has been to ensure that employees work in a safe environment and are equipped with the necessary working tools of the trade.

“Since the inception of Ekurhuleni 20 years ago, we have been working tirelessly to ensure a uniform look across our solid waste depots. Some have been constructed from scratch, while others needed upgrades which have been effected,” said Phosa.

Employees in the department who have been with the City since its inception have heaped praises on the department for improving the conditions of the depots.

Waste removal officer Solomon Mahlangu (59) says he has worked for the solid waste department in springs since 1998 even before the City came into being.

“Things have really changed. Our work space used to look like a hostel, now these offices look nicer than our houses. It feels good to walk into a fully furnished kitchen at work and prepare tea in a clean space,” said Mahlangu.