Maseru. Feb,11- The planned relocation of the Ha-Ts’osane dump site has sparked concern among residents and informal waste pickers who fear the move will deprive them of their only source of income.
Authorities have indicated that the relocation forms part of efforts to address health hazards and rehabilitate the area. However, individuals who rely on scavenging at the site say the decision will leave them without livelihoods and expose their families to hunger.
For years, men, women and children have collected scrap metal, cardboard and other recyclable materials from the dump site, selling them to recycling centres to sustain their households. They argue that without access to the site, they will struggle to afford food, school fees and other basic necessities.
In an interview with the Lesotho News Agency, a resident of Ts’enola village, ’Mats’epo Lekeme, said the relocation would leave many families destitute.
“If the relocation continues, people are going to starve. This may also lead to an increase in crime as some will resort to illegal activities to survive,” she said.
She added that some out-of-school children work at the dumping site to support themselves and avoid engaging in criminal behaviour.
Speaking on behalf of other waste pickers, ’Mamolupe Pulumane said she has depended on scavenging at the site for several years and does not know how she will provide for her family once the dump is relocated.
“We appeal to the government not to take away our only source of income without providing alternative means of survival. The money we earn here makes a significant difference in our lives,” she said.
Meanwhile, Chief of Ts’enola Majoe-a-Lits’oene, Chief Moeketsi Mothobi, acknowledged the concerns of residents but emphasised the health risks associated with the dump site.
He said while the relocation may negatively affect those who depend on the site for income, the community faces serious challenges including exposure to diseases and the threat of rodents and other pests entering their homes.
Authorities have yet to outline measures to support those who will be affected by the relocation.
ends/RK/BM
