This Mandela Day, Bitou residents witnessed an inspiring gathering of leaders, changemakers, and community members at the launch of a youth-focused recycling initiative.

From today, 18 July 2025, residents of Kwanokuthula and New Horizons have buy-back centres in their community.

In attendance was Mayor Jessica Kamkam, Council Speaker, Cllr Mavis Busakwe, Cllr Claude Terblanche, Cllr Renicia Willemse and Cllr Swart, and Lisl Doherty, Enterprise Development Manager at Polyco NPC, as well as GRDM waste officer Innocentia Sikweyiya.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Kamkam emphasised that children are the future of this programme.

Speaking directly to the children, who were ranging from pre-schoolers to Grade 7 learners, Cllr Kamkam thanked them for their participation and explained why recycling is so important to our environment.

"One must care for the Earth”,she said while also speaking about pollution.

Councillor Claude Terblanche also addressed the youth, thanking them for attending and encouraging them to bring their recyclables every Friday.

"You can sell plastics to change your lives," he said, highlighting how small actions can bring real change.

GRDM’s Sikweyiya delivered a heartfelt message about environmental degradation, noting that butterflies are no longer seen in polluted areas. She believes that children will lead the way by teaching their parents and communities to recycle.

Christina Paulse from Masiqhame - New Horizon closed the event by thanking everyone in attendance.

Paulse has been committed to this cause since 2018, and today proudly marked the official launch of her initiative.