Fighting litter with love: Kay Govender's green crusade in Chatsworth
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers
KAY Govender is spearheading a movement to combat illegal dumping and transform neglected spaces into flourishing gardens, inspiring community pride and action.
Where trash once festered, lush gardens now bloom in the heart of Chatsworth.
The retired businessman and resident is leading a quiet revolution against illegal dumping and inspiring residents to turn littered verges into vibrant community spaces.
With deep roots in Silverglen, dating back to 1967, Govender has watched the neighbourhood evolve for better and for worse.
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Sthembiso Ngcongo, from left, Lee Pather and Kay Govender.
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers
'Since 1995, I noticed our streets were deteriorating. We could not rely on municipal services, so I decided to act,' he said.
In 2022, Govender launched the Chatsworth Community Projects (CCP), a grassroots initiative transforming unsightly public spaces into thriving green verges. What started as a one-man mission using his own funds had blossomed into a growing movement, with volunteers, WhatsApp groups, and even part-time workers helping to maintain the newly-created gardens."
But the fight is far from over. Illegal dumping remains a pressing issue in Chatsworth.
'We are not just cleaning. We are restoring pride,' said a determined Govender.
He has seen firsthand the impact of neglect - open piles of garbage that breed disease and destroy community morale.
CCP's message is simple: take responsibility, report offenders, and educate one another. Every street, he believes, should have an environmental team leader to coordinate cleanup and awareness.
Govender is now engaging with municipal departments to begin a once-a-month Sunday cleanup campaign, rallying citizens to become active environmental warriors.
'We can't always wait for services. It starts with us,' he said.
His passion has not gone unnoticed. Govender was recently honoured at the Unsung Heroes awards at Sastri College. This was a well-earned tribute to someone who does not just talk about change but cultivates it daily, one bag of weeds and one rubbish bag at a time.
Govender's message is as clear as his gardens are green: 'If we all do a little, we can accomplish a lot.'
Residents interested in volunteering with CCP can WhatsApp him on 082 828 0959, or follow the initiative on Facebook: Chatsworth Community Projects.
In a time of neglect, Govender has planted purpose - and it's growing beautifully.
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