Community Rallies for Msuthinja
In a spirited show of unity and care for the environment, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) teamed up with uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW) to lead a community-driven clean-up along the Msuthinja River in Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. This hands-on event, held on 25 September 2025, marked the build-up to World Rivers Day, shining a light on the urgent need to protect these precious waterways from harm. Local residents, government officials and partners joined forces to remove rubbish and spread the word about keeping rivers clean, reminding everyone that healthy rivers mean better lives for all.
The clean-up drew in folks from all walks of life, including teams from the Mandeni Local Municipality, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and Msinsi Holdings.
Together, they tackled waste dumped in the river, turning a polluted stretch into a cleaner, safer spot. This initiative not only cleared out trash but also sparked conversations about how everyday actions can make a big difference in fighting pollution and safeguarding water sources.  As South Africa grapples with water shortages and environmental threats, events like this highlight the power of community action in building a sustainable future.
With World Rivers Day falling on 28 September 2025—the last Sunday of the month—this Mandeni effort served as a timely reminder of the global push to cherish and restore rivers. It ties into broader campaigns across the country, where similar clean-ups and awareness drives aim to tackle the growing challenges of water pollution and scarcity.
Hands-On Action: Clearing the Msuthinja River
The clean-up kicked off bright and early on 25 September, with volunteers rolling up their sleeves to pull out plastic bags, bottles and other junk from the Msuthinja River. This waterway, which flows into the larger uThukela River, plays a key role in supplying water for treatment and use by nearby communities.  Officials from DWS and UUW stressed that tossing foreign objects into rivers is harmful in every way, as it clogs up the flow, harms wildlife and makes water purification much harder.
Water Education Specialist from UUW, Dudu Duma, spoke straight from the heart to those gathered. She warned against polluting the Msuthinja River, pointing out how it feeds directly into the uThukela River where water is drawn for cleaning and distribution. “The sub-standard treatment of effluence from some of the municipality’s Wastewater Treatment Works also contributes to the contamination of the water courses in the province. It is therefore imperative for the communities not to exacerbate the situation by polluting the water courses that runs through their areas,” Duma said.
Her words hit home, especially in a province like KwaZulu-Natal that has faced tough times with water issues. From busted pipes due to vandalism to supply cuts that leave taps dry, the area knows all too well the pain of unreliable water.  By getting people involved in the clean-up, the event aimed to build a sense of ownership, encouraging locals to watch over their rivers like guardians.
Beyond the riverbank, the day included fun and learning for everyone. Volunteers shared tips on spotting pollution and simple ways to stop it, turning the clean-up into a lively community gathering that boosted spirits and strengthened bonds.
Spreading the Word: Education Outreach Hits the Streets and Schools
The river clean-up did not stop at picking up litter—it grew into a full-blown education drive to reach more hearts and minds. The team headed to Sundumbili Plaza Taxi Rank, a busy hub where people of all ages come and go. There, they chatted with commuters about the downsides of river pollution, handing out info on how waste in waterways can lead to health risks, fish die-offs and even floods. 
Next up was a stop at Sundumbili Primary School, where young learners got a front-row seat to the message. Officials explained how dirty rivers affect everyone, from animals to families relying on clean water. The kids jumped in with questions, showing real interest in the topic. They were taught the basics of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, which help cut down on waste that ends up in rivers and the air.
This school visit was a smart move, planting seeds of responsibility in the next generation. By making learning interactive, the programme hoped to inspire these youngsters to become champions for their environment, carrying the lessons home to their families and friends. 
Tackling Bigger Challenges: River Health in KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal’s rivers face a tough battle against pollution, with sources ranging from industrial runoff to household trash. Recent reports show that many waterways in the province are under stress, with high levels of contaminants from poorly treated sewage and illegal dumping.  The uThukela River, for one, has seen its fair share of troubles, including algal blooms and low oxygen levels that threaten fish and plant life.
Vandalism adds to the woes, with damaged infrastructure causing leaks that waste precious water in a country already short on supply. South Africa is one of the driest nations on earth, with per-person water availability far below the global average. Events like this clean-up tie into national efforts, such as the Clear Rivers Campaign 2025, which runs under the theme “South Africa is a water-scarce country, clean up and protect our water resources.”  This drive pushes for regular monitoring, stricter rules on polluters and more community involvement to turn the tide.
Experts warn that without action, polluted rivers could harm tourism, farming and drinking water supplies. In KZN alone, over 40% of river systems are in poor health, according to ongoing assessments, calling for urgent steps like better wastewater treatment and anti-litter laws.
World Rivers Day: A Global Call to Action
World Rivers Day, started in 2005 and backed by the United Nations, shines a spotlight on these vital lifelines every last Sunday in September. This year, on 28 September 2025, the focus is on raising awareness about river health and the dangers of pollution and over-extraction.  It pushes for smart water use through learning and group efforts, like clean-ups and riverside gatherings that build a sense of duty towards these ecosystems.
Around the world, millions join in with activities that celebrate rivers while tackling threats like climate change and habitat loss. In South Africa, the day aligns with local pushes for conservation, especially in water-stressed areas. The Mandeni event is just one of many, with DWS hosting similar ones across provinces to rally support. 
This year’s global vibe, sometimes called a “Day of Action for Rivers,” highlights how everyone—from women leading community groups to kids in schools—can play a part in protection.  It’s a chance to reflect on rivers as sources of life, culture and economy, urging nations to commit to cleaner, healthier flows for generations to come.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition of Central News | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Central-News-Issue-115-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube