**Witbank Community Mobilizes for Annual Clean-Up Drive Along Olifants River** Witbank, Mpumalanga – The Witbank community is preparing for its annual clean-up drive along the banks of the Olifants River, scheduled for Saturday, 27 April 2024. This initiative, now in its fifth year, aims to address the persistent issue of litter and pollution affecting the vital waterway and its surrounding environment. Organisers are calling for widespread participation from residents, local businesses, and community organisations to ensure the success of this important environmental effort. The Olifants River is a critical natural resource for Witbank and the wider Mpumalanga province, providing water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. However, it regularly faces challenges from illegal dumping and general waste accumulation, particularly in accessible areas. "The state of the Olifants River directly impacts our quality of life and the health of our ecosystem," stated Mr. Thabo Mokoena, Ward Councillor for Extension 8, who is actively involved in the planning. "This clean-up is not just about aesthetics; it's about safeguarding our water source and preserving biodiversity for future generations." Volunteers will gather at the Witbank Dam recreational area at 08:00 AM, where they will be provided with refuse bags, gloves, and safety briefings. The clean-up will focus on a 5-kilometre stretch of the riverbank, an area identified as a significant litter hotspot. Ms. Sarah van der Merwe, a long-time Witbank resident and volunteer, expressed her commitment. "I've seen the river deteriorate over the years. Participating in this clean-up is my way of contributing to its recovery. Every piece of plastic we remove makes a difference." Local businesses, including Witbank Hardware and Mpumalanga Recycling Solutions, have pledged their support by donating equipment and assisting with waste disposal. The collected refuse will be sorted, with recyclable materials diverted to appropriate facilities. Organisers hope to surpass last year's collection of 3.5 tonnes of waste. The event will conclude at 13:00 PM with a light lunch provided for all participants, fostering a sense of community achievement. The success of this annual clean-up drive relies heavily on community involvement. Residents are encouraged to register their participation in advance at the Witbank Municipal Offices or by contacting the Ward Councillor's office. This collective effort underscores Witbank's commitment to environmental stewardship and the sustainable management of its natural heritage.