Maoto Mpepe hiking club cleaned the streets in Botshabelo, with its spokesperson, Rene Seipati Khumalo, saying they chose to help clean this area since it’s close to a dumping site and thus very dirty. Khumalo added that cleaning up the town will not only help the hiking club to better hike in the area, but it will also benefit the residents and raise awareness about the climate crisis.

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“As a club, we have taken it upon ourselves to raise awareness about climate change. We have seen its effects with the droughts and heavy rains we have experienced as a country. Because of the nature of hiking, it is necessary that we promote a clean environment, so the next generation can have access to the parks and mountains that we experience through the sport. Another objective was for the club to take part in improving our communities, especially during this Mandela Month. We support the message of Tata. It’s in our hands to keep our surroundings clean,” Khumalo said.

The club had previously held a charity walk to raise funds to assist learners in need. Khumalo said they had donated school shoes and uniforms to learners at two schools. The club also took the opportunity to teach people about hiking as a sport during the charity walk.

OFM News