| DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION An estimate of 80 000 residents reside in the Doornkop area. This area is devided into 12 blocks. INTERDICIPLINARY APPROACH This approach was adopted that contributes to the success of the project. Several subclusters of the WMLC as well as the councillors of the different wards and the upgrading committee were an integral part of the project. The subclusters involved the following:
Knowledge was transmitted by using different strategies and included the following: A mobile unit fitted with water saving devices was put at strategic points and was manned by officials of Escom and Rand Water Board. Pamphlets (in 3 languages) was distributed, workshops on how to use water wisely was held, with explanitary posters and pictures. A drama group and mascot was also important in conveying the message. BEHAVIOUR CHANGE After conducting the first few workshops, reports from officials of the technical department was received that there was a change in the behaviour of the residents. Comments of the EO - Environmental Management on a report to EXCO in March 1999, Item 9 stated: "Positive results are already visible in blocks 10 and 11, where the first two workshops have been held. An important point to note is the total lack of knowledge about environmental issues among the community on the one hand, and the high level of willingness and enthusiasm on the other hand, not only to be capacitated on environmental issues, but also to be actively involved in improving the environmental quality within their living environment." Less taps were left unattended (Soweto Washing Mashine) and a difference in the areas that usually are waterlogged was observed. Community members out of each of the different blocks were selected, provided with a tool kit and trained to maintain equipment and infrastructure to ensure that future maintenance will be done in a sustainable way. OBSTACLES THAT HAMPERED THE PROJECT The idea was to conduct at least one workshop in each of the different blocks. Due to the fact that there was no suitable venues in the different blocks, workshops were conducted in very difficult circumstances (Parks, Soccer fields, ...). Community members had to travel long distances by foot to attend workshops far from home. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Councillors were informed before hand and notices were put up on strategic places. On the day of the workshop officials drove through streets announcing the workshop. Hooters were blown to attract attention and pamphlets distributed to homes. Banners were put up and training was provided free of charge. Although the community of Doornkop is made up of such a large number of residents, the attendance of the workshops were very poor taking into consideration all the effort put in to promotion. EVALUATION Meter readings were taken before and after implementation of the project. A survey of the area was also done before and after implementation. The number of community members attending the workshops were documented. ENABLING FACTORS Funds from Rand Water were used for the printing of the pamphlets, payment of the drama group, toolkits and T-shirts. There was a hand over ceremony at the end of the project. There were also a lot of enthusiasm by all involved. HUMAN RESOURCES Without the assistance of all the different parties involved, this project would not have materialised with the resources we had available. Different parties should get involved in any project. ADVICE
REFERENCES Western Metropolitan Local Council 1999: Doornkop Water Conservation Project. WMLC-Environmental Management: Roodepoort. |
