‘Peace My City,’ Environmental Clean-Up Held in Bonteheuwel, Cape Town

 

 

South Africa has been facing a severe gun violence crisis, with more than 7,500 people killed by firearms in just one year, from 2022 to 2023. One of the hardest-hit areas is Bonteheuwel, a community created through forced relocations during apartheid, which still suffers from illegal gun trafficking and high crime rates.

To address these challenges, HWPL and IPYG launched the ‘Peace My City – Creating Gun-Free Communities’ program, implementing citizen engagement initiatives to build a safer, peaceful Bonteheuwel in Cape Town. Local youth organizations, in collaboration with IPYG, have actively contributed ideas and participated from planning to implementation, continuing to engage in meaningful grassroots action.

On May 24th, HWPL, IPYG, and IWPG conducted an environmental clean-up volunteer activity in Bonteheuwel, Cape Town, as part of the ‘Peace My City’ program. The event was especially meaningful as it also commemorated the 12th anniversary of HWPL’s Declaration of World Peace.

 

 

The clean-up took place at the former Bonteheuwel High School sports ground, where approximately 90 local residents and youth volunteers transformed neglected areas near the walking routes of two primary schools and a high school. Participants collected about 200 trash bags, contributing significantly to improving the local environment. The event began with prayers from Muslim and Christian representatives, while Cape Town’s mascot ‘Bingo Bin’ visited to cheer on the volunteers. Equipment and refreshments used during the activity were generously provided by the city council, district office, and local organizations, demonstrating powerful community solidarity.

 

 

“Though this area still bears the scars of apartheid, courageous people must lead the way for change. It is crucial to teach children why a clean environment matters,” said Aziz Hartley, former editor of Cape Argus, who shared the meaning behind participating in the ‘Peace My City’ initiative.

“This event was much needed. While the community may contribute to the problem, taking action ourselves is peace in practice. A clean environment is a peaceful environment,” said Soraya Salie, founder of the Bonteheuwel Walking Ladies Foundation.

 

 

A significant milestone was marked during the event as HWPL South Africa, the Cape Town City Council, and the district office signed an official partnership to implement the ‘Peace My City’ program at the local level.

The dedication and actions of local youth to care for their community and practice peace went beyond a simple clean-up—it became meaningful change co-created by young people and residents, marking a valuable first step toward lasting peace. IPYG will continue to expand its efforts to establish the ‘Peace My City – Creating Gun-Free Communities’ program as a sustainable and community-rooted peace movement.