This move is part of a broader effort to clean up the sites, combat illegal activities, and turn waste management into a sustainable economic driver, said municipal spokesperson Qondile Khedama.

On Thursday (17/4), officials of the ailing metro, along with the police, visited the Northern Landfill site to assess ongoing issues. 

According to Khedama, the joint inspection was prompted by allegations of people illegally residing on-site and participating in unauthorised activities, similar to issues discovered previously at the Southern Landfill Site.

Mangaung Metro officials with members of SAPS at the Northern Landfill site in Bloemfontein. Photo supplied

“We had our stakeholders, including SAPS, come through this morning because of allegations that people are living here illegally, just as we saw at the Southern Landfill site,” said Khedama.

“This is part of a joint programme involving various departments, including Public Safety and Waste Management, to clean up, reopen blocked routes, and ensure proper site management.”

The Northern Landfill Site has long been a source of complaints from nearby residents. Concerns range from persistent burning of waste to the impact on property values due to the site’s proximity to residential areas.

“There are valid questions about why the site is so close to residential areas,” Khedama acknowledged. 

“These concerns are being addressed at a higher level by the mayoral committee and the city manager. We are working to expedite our plans and provide a comprehensive report soon.”

As part of the municipality’s long-term strategy, Khedama said officials and law enforcement will continue to conduct regular site inspections. The aim is not only to deal with ongoing illegal activity but also to bring order through structured management and public awareness.

He emphasised the importance of incorporating waste pickers into the formal economy.

Mangaung Metro officials with members of SAPS at the Northern Landfill site in Bloemfontein. Photo supplied

“We want to bring an element of awareness and provide licensed waste pickers with proper documentation. They need to know when training is scheduled, in line with the city’s broader waste management strategy,” he said.

The municipality is exploring ways to turn waste into an economic resource, supporting local job creation and boosting the metro’s economy. “Waste is an economy on its own,” Khedama added. “We’re working on a plan to formalise this sector and make it a viable business opportunity.”

OFM News previously reported growing tensions at the Mangaung Southern Landfill site, where local waste pickers expressed concerns about being displaced by undocumented foreign nationals, primarily from Lesotho. 

These individuals are accused of dominating the site and engaging in criminal activities, raising safety and regulatory concerns.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg