Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to footer

Municipal Health

25 March 2026 Media Release: Blitz Operation by GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners, Hessequa Law Enforcement and Police

Media Release: Blitz Operation by GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners, Hessequa Law Enforcement and Police

25 March 2026

A coordinated joint operation between Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Municipal Health Services, Hessequa Municipality’s Municipal Police and the South African Police Service (SAPS) resulted in the inspection of 38 spaza shops over a two-day period, on 19 and 20 March 2026.

The operation formed part of ongoing efforts to ensure public health, enforce applicable by-laws, and address any illegal activities. Officials conducted thorough inspections focusing on food safety standards, including the monitoring of expired goods, hygiene practices, storage conditions, and the verification of valid Certificates of Acceptability.

Compliance issues were identified and addressed during the operation. Unsafe food products were confiscated while certain establishments may face further enforcement action. Hessequa Municipality’s Municipal Police also addressed matters relating to fire safety and relevant bylaws, with SAPS providing support to ensure the safety and security of all officials involved.

Officials carrying out inspection activities during the operation.

Cllr Hoogbaard, MMC for Community Services at GRDM, during the session reiterated that the operation demonstrated the commitment from all role players to protect public health and ensuring that all businesses operate within the legal framework and that similar operations will be conducted to promote compliance.

Residents are encouraged to report any concerns related to food safety or non-compliant issues to this department businesses to the municipality.

Johan Compion
jcompion@gardenroute.gov.za
044 803 1550 / 082 803 5161

Haemish Herwels – Chief: Municipal Health Hessequa (Langeberg)
haemish@gardenroute.gov.za
028 713 2438 / Cell: 083 678 6545
23 Mitchell Street, Riversdale

 

Opsomming in Afrikaans

’n Gekoördineerde gesamentlike operasie tussen die Tuinroete Distriksmunisipaliteit (TDM) se Omgewingsgesondheidspraktisyns, Hessequa Munisipaliteit se Munisipale Polisiediens en die Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiediens (SAPS) het gelei tot die inspeksie van 38 spaza-winkels oor ’n twee-dag tydperk, op 19 en 20 Maart 2026.

Die operasie vorm deel van TDM se voortdurende pogings om openbare gesondheid te beskerm, toepaslike verordeninge se implimentering te verseker, en enige onwettige aktiwiteite aan te spreek. Amptenare het deeglike inspeksies uitgevoer wat gefokus het op voedselveiligheidsstandaarde, insluitend die monitering van vervalde produkte, higiënepraktyke, bergingstoestande en die verifikasie van geldige Aanvaarbaarheidssertifikate.

Oortredings is geïdentifiseer en aangespreek, onveilige voedselprodukte is gekonfiskeer, en sekere besighede kan verdere afdwingingsaksie verwag. Hessequa Munisipaliteit se Munisipale Polisiediens het ook brandveiligheid en toepaslike verordeninge aangespreek, terwyl SAPS die veiligheid van alle betrokke amptenare verseker het.

Soortgelyke operasies sal in die toekoms voortgaan om voldoening aan verordeninge te bevorder.  Inwoners word aangemoedig om enige bekommernisse rakende voedselveiligheid of nie-nakoming aan die munisipaliteit te rapporteer.

-Einde-

23 March 2026 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Celebrates Global Recycling Day with Young Innovators

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Celebrates Global Recycling Day with Young Innovators

23 March 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in collaboration with Mossel Bay Local Municipality, celebrated Global Recycling Day on 18 March 2026 at Herbertsdale Primary School, embracing the theme “Don’t Waste, Think Opportunity.”

This celebration brought creativity and environmental awareness together as learners participated in a unique activity where they designed garments using recyclable materials. Others transformed waste into imaginative fashion statements, demonstrating that recycling can be both innovative and inspiring.

In a show of inclusivity and encouragement, every learner was recognised as a winner, while the top five participants were highlighted for their exceptional creativity and innovative use of recyclable materials. This approach not only celebrated excellence but also motivated broader participation among learners.

The initiative successfully linked recycling to real-world creativity, spreading the message that waste can be transformed into opportunity. To ensure the sustainability of these lessons, the school was also equipped with four colour-coded recycling bins, promoting proper waste separation as part of daily school activities.

Highlights of activities from the Global Recycling Day celebration held on 20 March 2026 at Herbertsdale Primary School.

GRDM further acknowledged the valuable support of its partners, including POLYCO, Aquelle, and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning. Their collaboration played a key role in making the event impactful and sustainable.

This initiative forms part of GRDM’s ongoing commitment to environmental education and community awareness, empowering young people to adopt responsible waste management practices and to see opportunity in what is often discarded.

-END-

09 March 2026 Disposal of the dead: Transportation of Human Remains

Media Release: Disposal of the dead: Transportation of Human Remains

For immediate release
09 March 2026

The transportation of human remains to and from areas is a occurs regularly, resulting from urbanisation and family members being dispersed across South Africa and neighbouring countries.

Transportation of bodies from the Garden Route district to areas outside the boundaries of the district, takes place by either registered funeral undertakers, private individuals or public transport provided that the criteria are met as legislated.

Disposal of the dead also known as Management of human remains, are one of the nine (9) Municipal Health / Environmental Health functions assigned to Local Government in terms of the National Health Act 2003 (Act 61 of 2003).

Desmond Paulse, Garden Route District Municipality’s Manager for Municipal Health in the Klein Karoo, said that legislation utilised by the Municipal Health section to regulate management of humans remains, is Regulation 363 promulgated under the National Health Act. Paulse further added that “the Management of human remains involves the handling, storage, preparation and transportation of the human body after passing.

How are human remains transported.

  • Human remains can only be transported in a manner that does not endanger public health.
  • Coffins should be leak-proof and free of offensive odours during transportation with public transport.
  • If a private vehicle is solely used for the transportation of human remains, the vehicle in terms of the National Health Act, should be in possession of a COC.
  • If the person at the time of their passing suffered from an infectious disease which can transmit even after death, the funeral undertakers transporting the body should adhere to the requirements set out in Regulation 363 and accompanied by a declaration from a medical practitioner.

The following documents should accompany the body during transportation:

  • Death Certificate
  • Burial order
  • Transport certificate to be issued by the SAPS

The transportation of human remains is a regulated and procedurally sensitive undertaking that requires strict adherence to the applicable legislation to preserve public health.

END

04 March 2026 Media Release: GRDM Engages Schools and Communities in Fight Against Waste and Illegal Dumping

Media Release: GRDM Engages Schools and Communities in Fight Against Waste and Illegal Dumping

04 March 2026

During February, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Waste Management Section continued rolling out its Green School Program by introducing a new colour-coded bin system at participating schools across the district.

The programme aims to strengthen waste minimisation education and encourage environmental awareness among learners. After all, waste minimisation starts with awareness and action. By equipping schools with the right tools and knowledge to manage waste responsibly, we are empowering learners to become champions of sustainability in their own households and communities.

On 12 February, GRDM, in collaboration with the Bitou Municipality, visited two schools in the Bitou Municipal area to introduce the program. The following day, on 13 February, GRDM collaborated with Landmark to hand over 85 recycling boxes to Outeniqua High School.  These boxes will enable learners to separate waste directly in their classrooms, making recycling part of their daily routine.

The following week, on 18 February, the GRDM Waste Management Section, in collaboration with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve, extended the programme to three schools in the Hessequa Municipal area, reaching more than 700 learners.

Learners were taught how to separate waste correctly, followed by interactive Q&A sessions to test their understanding. They also practised identifying the correct waste streams for each colour-coded bin, reinforcing the importance of responsible waste management in a practical and engaging way.

“GRDM would like to acknowledge POLYCO, MPACT, and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (Western Cape Government) for partnering with us to ensure the success of this programme. The Green School Program is a GRDM-led initiative that promotes sustainability through practical education, hands-on activities, and partnerships. The programme focuses on waste minimisation and recycling and equips learners with the skills and values needed to make eco-conscious choices,” said Innocentia Sikweyiya, GRDM District Waste Management Officer.

In Hessequa, GRDM collaborates with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR), a non-governmental organisation focused on biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and community engagement. In the George area, GRDM works in partnership with Landmark to support the implementation of the programme. Through these partnerships, the initiative introduces clearly marked bins for paper, plastic, metal/cans, and glass, making it easier for learners and staff to practise responsible waste separation

Illegal Dumping Silent Walk / March

On Friday, 27 February, the George Local Municipality hosted a Silent March Against Illegal Dumping in Thembalethu. Though the march was silent, the collective message was loud and clear: illegal dumping has no place in our communities.

Led by the Executive Mayor of George and the Portfolio Head for Community Services, participants carried placards with powerful messages urging an end to illegal waste disposal. The march symbolized unity and determination to protect the environment and promote cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods.

The event concluded with closing remarks from the Garden Route District Municipality Waste Management Section (GRDM), highlighting the importance of collaboration between local government and communities in reclaiming our dignity and ensuring the right to live in a clean and healthy environment.

“Together, participants stood in silence, but their voices spoke volumes. Illegal dumping is unacceptable, and the commitment to building a cleaner, safer Thembalethu for all remains strong,” said Sikweyiya

-END-

Photos capturing some of the school visits and activities conducted across the district during February.

19 January 2025 Media Release: Mattresses and blankets handed over to Graceland Crèche by GRDM

Media Release: Mattresses and blankets handed over to Graceland Crèche by GRDM

For immediate release
19 January 2026

Today, 19 January 2026, the Department Community Services, handed over mattresses and blankets to Graceland Crèche in Conville, George, as part of an Early Childhood Development Health and Hygiene Awareness session presented by Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from GRDM.

EHPs Janine Koopman (left) and Lana Don (right) demonstrate proper hand wash techniques and an illegal dumping presentation to kids and caretakers of Graceland Crèche.

To start off the programme, the team of EHPs Janine Koopman and Lana Don, demonstrated how hands must be washed during the day in order to prevent the spread of germs and prevent illnesses. Another important aspect of concern in the environment, is illegal dumping of litter in the environment. During the presentation the team emphasised the importance how litter must be handled, that it must be put in a dustbin instead of littered in the communities. All kids present were also encouraged to share these messages with parents at home.

When handing over the items to the crèche, Cllr Hoogbaard emphasised that “although it might not be plenty items to fulfil all the needs of the creche, the gesture comes from a District Municipality that cares for its communities”.

Johan Compion, Senior Manager responsible for Municipal Health at GRDM, during his address emphasised the importance of proper rest in a learning environment stating that “good rest allows your body to restore enough energy in order for you to focus better in class, especially during lessons – you think better, you listen better and complete your tasks better in the class,” he emphasised.

The principal of the crèche, Mandy Booysen, extended words of gratitude to all EHPs who delivered presentations about good hygiene practices and the negative impact of illegal dumping on the environment. She also stated that “every single gesture of support to the facility is appreciated,” when she referred to how expensive daily essentials are to operate optimally and to provide the best possible service to the children enrolled at the crèche.

“We thank the District Municipality, Cllr Hoogbaard and the team for the visit today and for choosing Graceland Creche so early in the year,” Booysen added.

DID YOU KNOW?

  •  Illegal dumping causes the spread of bacteria, diseases, causes rodent infestations, causes water, soil, and air pollution and it also blocks our water network systems. It furthermore leads to pollution of air, water and soil, and can also attract pests and create unsanitary conditions. In addition, it can also decrease property values and negatively impact the overall aesthetic of an area.
  • Hand washing benefits both young and old and is the first line of defence in preventing the spread of disease and must be embraced vigorously by families, schools and health care professionals.

Gallery:

ENDS

16 January 2026 Media Release: Environmental Practitioners from GRDM ensured health and safety standards during holiday period

Media Release: Environmental Practitioners from GRDM ensured health and safety standards during holiday period

For immediately release
16 January 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has implemented its Seasonal Municipal Health Safety Plan to ensure the health and safety of residents and visitors during the December holiday period.

As tourists entered the region GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) intensified their Municipal Health plans conducting inspections while monitoring and creating awareness across all seven local municipal areas to protect public health during the busiest time of the year.

The following inspections were conducted:

Knysna Region:

  • Formal food premises – 54
  • Informal food premises – 14

Pre-seasonal Health and Hygiene inspections were conducted of at major food outlets, malls and shopping centres. During this period no food related incidents were reported to this office.

George – Wilderness region:

  • Formal food premises – 44
  • Spaza shops – 25

Premises were under severe pressure due to the influx of tourists to the area. This made cleaning as-you-go challenging and most cleaning was done after business hours. Hiring more staff is an option that can help clean continuously, but it comes at a cost. Premises must not stretch beyond their reach in Decembers and accommodate more customers than they are able to handle – this is to ensure that food safety remains prioritised.

Although people followed health and hygiene standards, a possible scabies outbreak was reported in the area. Following inspections conducted, it was discovered that only two cases occurred, after which the facility acted to prevent further spread in the area. Health education was provided to the management of the facility.

Another complaint of children defecating in the water at the Touws River was received and subsequently a swimming section was cornered off for no swimming due to contamination. It is important to be reminded that there are clean public bathroom facilities to use and that many people also swim in the same water, so the water must be left in the clean condition it was found in.

Stalls/markets in the area were also monitored to ensure ongoing compliance, and mostly everyone complied.

George – Outeniqua region:

  • Formal food premises: 86
  • Informal food premises: 107

Highlights experienced in this area were that all informal food stalls were registered prior to events; health and hygiene requirements were met by all food handlers/owners; and minor incidences were addressed and rectified immediately showing co-operation and willingness to adhere. Furthermore, no health and hygiene complaints were received from various platforms during the holiday period.

EHPs extended a message of gratitude to all businesses for their cooperation and the commitment that they have showed towards the environmental well-being of the communities of the Garden Route.

Bitou region:

The following inspections were conducted:

  • Formal food premises: 39
  • Information food premises: 1
  • In the Bitou area, residents and visitors followed and complied to health and hygiene standards – all inspected food premises complied, with no cases of food poisoning reported.

Mossel Bay region:

The Mossel Bay area hosted various events including the:

  • “Matriek Baai”
  • Jazz Festival
  • “Afrikaans is Groot” (2 events)
  • 2 x Christmas White Tents in Hartenbos
  • Markets – Brinkleys; Great Brak River
  • Amongst others.

With these events that were hosted in Mossel Bay, the EHPs also included inspections of these and other premises in their planning for the holiday period. The following premises were inspected:

  • Formal food premises (complied): 58
  • Informal food premises (complied): 70
  • Spaza shops (complied): 9
  • Other premises (complied): 18

A highlight of this area was that all informal food stalls were registered prior to events. Health and hygiene requirements were met by all food handlers/owners, however, minor incidences were addressed and rectified immediately’ showing co-operation and willingness by business owners and managers to adhere to the health and hygiene standards. No health and hygiene complaints were received from various platforms during the holiday period.

Furthermore, EHPs from the Mossel Bay region did regular monitoring of the bacteriological standard in the Hartenbos River during the holiday. From the total of four samples taken at two sampling points at the Hartenbos River, all the samples complied bacteriologically.

Hessequa region:

The following inspections were conducted:

  • Formal food premises: 37
  • Informal food premises: 14
  • Spaza shops: 52

Most of the inspections were follow-ups as to ensure compliance to relevant regulations. Caravan parks were well maintained by the Hessequa Municipality with excellent hygiene standards applied.

The following events took place:

  • 20 Dec 2025 – Cooler Box Chill out, Riversdale
  • 20 Dec 2025 – Cooler Box Chill out, Heidelberg
  • 21 Dec 2025 – Cooler Box Chill out, Albertinia
  • Christmas Outreach
  • 27 Dec 2025 – Summer Baze

These events were regarded as low-risk events as only one food trader were operating at the events. Hygiene aspects with regards to food safety, waste management and sanitation, were thus adhered to.

Oudtshoorn and Kannaland:

Between 15 December and the 5 January 2026, 41 inspections were conducted in the Klein Karoo region.  This included formal food premises and general surveillance inspections. No food related complaints were received over the festive season.

Regrettably, the water situation in Kannaland worsened to the point where water had to be transported to areas where there was no accessible water available.  Kannaland also received assistance from various sources to help alleviate the problem.

Two crucial lessons learned during the festive period, is communication and safety.

  1. Communication is critical: Effective and efficient Municipal Health Services requires constant dialogue between management and the public and that regular training and awareness sessions at business premises be conducted.
  2. Safety:  It is not just the EHPs responsibility; it is a cooperative effort involving everyone to maintain a healthy and safe environment.

The Municipal Health Services of GRDM extends a word of gratitude to the community for taking care over the festive season and wishing everyone a prosperous and blessed 2026.

ENDS

21 November 2025 Media Release: Comprehensive Seasonal Municipal Health Safety Plan ready as Holiday Season approaches

Media Release: Comprehensive Seasonal Municipal Health Safety Plan ready as Holiday Season approaches

21 November 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has developed its Seasonal Municipal Health Safety Plan to ensure that residents and holiday visitors enjoy a safe and healthy environment during the peak holiday season.

According to Executive Mayor Marais Kruger, “every year, the region experiences a significant increase in food handling activities, temporary events, large tourist volumes, and higher temperatures. All of which heighten the risk of foodborne illnesses, water contamination, and general public health hazards”.

“In response to the influx of tourists, GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) will intensify their proactive inspections, monitoring and awareness operations across all seven local municipal areas from now to January 2026.”

Protecting public health during the busiest season

The plan is to ensure extensive monitoring of food premises, accommodation facilities, water quality, and hygiene compliance across the district. Activities will include blitz operations, joint enforcement actions, sampling programmes, community awareness campaigns, and extended standby coverage by EHPs.

“EHPs play a vital role in safeguarding lives, especially during the festive season when food consumption, mobility, and public interaction significantly increase,” said Mayor Marais Kruger.

“This plan strengthens our region’s resilience to prevent food poisoning, disease outbreaks and environmental contamination.”

Key activities will include:

Food Safety, Hygiene and Compliance Monitoring

  • Conduct inspections at spaza shops, formal food premises, informal food traders, mobile vendors, restaurants, accommodation establishments, school feeding schemes, soup kitchens, wholesalers, ECD centres, markets, festivals and event-based food stalls.
  • Monitor food handling practices, prevention of cross-contamination, temperature control, personal hygiene, structural compliance, sanitation practices, pest control and chemical safety.
  • Enforce compliance with Certificates of Acceptability (COA), including issuing fines or closing non-compliant shops.
  • Ensure labelling, supplier verification and safe storage of foodstuffs.

Sampling and Laboratory Testing

  • Take surface swabs and bacteriological food samples during November and December.
  • Conduct ongoing chemical and bacteriological food sampling.
  • Complete water and food-related samples during November and December across drinking water, river water, beach water, sewerage, final effluent and perishable food items.
  • Conduct monthly bacteriological sampling of the Knysna Estuary.
  • Collect bacteriological samples from foodstuffs and water samples

Awareness, Education and Community Engagement

  • Deliver weekly health and hygiene awareness sessions.
  • Conduct outreach and education with informal traders, schools, clinics, ECDs, the food industry, and the general public.
  • Provide hygiene training to food handlers before major holiday events.
  • Monitor community complaint platforms and respond to public health concerns.

Enforcement and Joint Operations

  • Undertake collaborative blitz operations with Law Enforcement, SAPS, Fire Services, Immigration, Electricity and Planning Departments.
  • Conduct compliance monitoring during roadblocks and at accident scenes involving foodstuffs or potential water contamination.

Administrative and Seasonal Support

  • Ensure administrative staff issue Certificates of Acceptability, COC Certificates and Health Certificates until 19 December 2025.

Implement a strengthened standby programme with Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) on duty across all regions between 12 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. “Our responsibility is to prevent avoidable harm.

This plan ensures we remain vigilant, responsive, and committed to protecting public health during the busiest season of the year,” said Compion.

For more information or to report unhygienic practices by food handlers, contact the following GRDM offices within the Garden Route:

Johan Compion
Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Solid Waste Management and Air Quality
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
Tel: 044 803 1300 / Cell: 082 803 516

Klein Karoo & Kannaland
Desmond Paulse – Manager: Municipal Health (Klein Karoo)
94 St John Street, Oudtshoorn
Tel: 044 272 2241 / Cell: 083 678 6530

Mossel Bay
Rinay Cloete – Acting Chief: Municipal Health
C/O Sampson & Marling Street, Ext 23, Mossel Bay
Tell: 044 693 0006 / Cell: 083 530 3709

George Outeniqua
Emmy Douglas – Chief: Municipal Health (Outeniqua)
Mission Street, Industrial Area, George, 6530
Tel: 044 803 1501 / Cell: 078 457 2824

George & Wilderness
Lusizo Kwetshube – Acting Chief: Municipal Health
Mission Street, Industrial Area, George, 6530
Tel: 044 803 1599 / Cell: 081 555 6992

Knysna
James McCarthy – Chief: Knysna
26A Queen Street, Knysna, 6571
Tel: 044 382 7214 / Cell: 082 805 9417

Bitou
Gawie Vos – Chief: Lakes (Bitou)
4 Virginia street, Plettenberg bay, 6600
Tel: 044 501 1600 / Cell: 083 557 1522

Hessequa
Haemish Herwels – Chief: Hessequa
24 Michell Street, Riversdale, 6670
Tel: 028 713 2438 / Cell: 083 678 6545

 

20 October 2025 Media Release: GRDM’s EHPs celebrate Global Handwash Day at Kwakhanya Crèche, Thembalethu

Media Release: GRDM’s EHPs celebrate Global Handwash Day at Kwakhanya Crèche, Thembalethu

For immediate release
20 October 2025

The team of Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) at Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) serving the George (Outeniqua) region, on 15 October 2025 celebrated Global Handwashing Day at Kwakhanya Crèche in Zone 9, Thembalethu. Global Handwashing Day is a partnership of a group of international organisations, including UNICEF, the World Bank and public health agencies globally – this is why the GRDM forms part of this annual campaign.

The take-away message for this year was “Clean hands are within reach – a small action that creates a big impact on global health”

The localised campaign rightfully therefore focused on highlighting the importance of handwashing with soap and water as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. The GRDM team educated the learners/toddlers about the importance of washing hands with soap and the effects of germs on people’s health. Approximately 50 children displayed great excitement and enthusiasm, particularly during the handwashing demonstration, which was presented by EHP Lulamile Macala, which made the session engaging and enjoyable for all who participated.

Representatives from the Breede Olifant Catchment Management Agency were also in attendance.

In conclusion of the event programme, the team donated a few backpacks and water bottles which they handed over to the principal of the facility. This gesture, along with the overall celebration and educational activities at their creche, was warmly welcomed by the principal and the children who expressed their appreciation for the visit and programme.

The celebration also aligned with this year’s theme: “Be a Handwashing Hero!”

ENDS

30 September 2025 Media Release: GRDM EHPs in Knysna promote Clean Air Awareness at Nekkies/Sanlam Mall in celebration of World Environmental Health Day

GRDM EHPs in Knysna promote Clean Air Awareness at Nekkies/Sanlam Mall in celebration of World Environmental Health Day

For immediate release
30 September 2025

The Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from the Municipal Health Section based in Knysna, rolled out a Clean Air Promotion Campaign at the Nekkies/Sanlam informal shopping and entertainment centre, in celebration of World Environmental Health Day.

This area, known for frequent open burning of waste, was strategically selected to raise awareness on 26 September 2025, about the dangers of open burning and its impact on both public health and the environment.

The primary goal of the campaign was to educate the public on the risks associated with open waste burning, including: The release of toxic air pollutants that contribute to respiratory illnesses and other chronic diseases. And the environmental impact, such as poor air quality and contribution to climate change.

Health related topics covered include:

  • The inhalation of smoke and toxic fumes;
  • Alternative waste management methods, such as waste separation and municipal collection;
  • Legal implications of open burning; and
  • The importance of community responsibility.

The campaign empowered the community with knowledge and tools to report and prevent illegal burning activities. Community members were provided with educational  magnets  designed to serve as reminders in their homes. The magnet papers include contact details to report incidents of illegal waste burning, helping residents take an active role in protecting their environment. Participants furthermore appreciated the visual and practical materials, which made the information easy to understand and applicable in daily life. The interactive approach encouraged open dialogue, where locals shared their experiences and challenges related to waste management.

Residents of the area welcomed the initiative, and others expressed their willingness to learn and their commitment towards change. The success of the campaign was due to the strong collaboration among key stakeholders, including the GRDM EHPs Sive None, Linden Herwels, Mthethwa Sithonga, led by Chief EHP, James McCarthy and the Law Enforcement Unit of the Knysna Municipality.

Feature Image: GRDM EHPs and Law Enforcement officials from Knysna Municipality during the campaign.

ENDS

29 Media Release:  GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners of Oudtshoorn Promote Clean Air and Healthier People during National Heritage Celebrations on 24 September 2025 in Oudtshoorn

Media Release:  GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners of Oudtshoorn Promote Clean Air and Healthier People during National Heritage Celebrations on 24 September 2025 in Oudtshoorn

29 September 2025

During the National Heritage Day celebrations in Oudtshoorn on 24 September 2025, attended by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, GRDM Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel, and other national and provincial ministers, EHPs from the GRDM Oudtshoorn office incorporated the World Environmental Health Day theme, ‘Clean Air, Healthy People,’ into the health promotion activities.  They reached a broad audience of approximately 5000 people with vital health and environmental messages.

The attendees at the event included various cultural groups, schools, religious leaders, community leaders, and more. National Heritage Day educational activities, both before and during the celebrations, highlighted the adverse health effects of tobacco use and the importance of smoke-free environments. Awareness efforts emphasized tobacco control and the significance of clean air in promoting respiratory health and preventing pollution-related illnesses. The EHPs health promotional activities encouraged members of the public to adopt healthier lifestyle choices and support initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and improving air quality, ultimately fostering a healthier and a more sustainable environment for all.

By combining cultural celebration with health education, a joint health education team, including EHPs from GRDM, Community Development Workers (CDW) from Oudtshoorn Municipality, the Event Safety officer, catering unit of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, EHPs from the Presidential Medical Unit as well as community leaders and caterers, all work together.

Health education and awareness topics included the following:

  • Avoid smoking in buildings, tents and during food preparation, smoke only in demarcated areas;
  • Prevent smoke pollution;
  • Proper waste management;
  • Prevent littering and avoid environmental pollution;
  • Consume only drinking water from reputable and safe water sources;
  • Practice good sanitation; and
  • Ensure hygienic food preparation and food safety.

The VIP guests were treated to a mouth-watering braaivleis lunch that honoured our rich local culinary heritage. The meal was prepared under hygienic conditions in a braai area designed to release smoke without causing smoke pollution in the adjacent Bridgton Secondary school hall, where the guests enjoyed their lunch.

-END-