From left to right: Florian, Kai-Ben, Alexander, Johannes, Simon and Luke
Six homeschooling learners have taken a hands-on approach to keeping Swakopmund clean, spending a recent morning picking up litter and cleaning the area in front of the dunes in a bid to make the surroundings safer and more pleasant for residents and visitors.
Equipped with gloves, bags and sanitation supplies, the young volunteers collected discarded bottles, cigarette butts, other litter and dog waste after noticing the mess left behind in the area.
The initiative was inspired by their love for the outdoors, particularly running barefoot and exploring nature. Concerned that litter and dog waste were affecting their ability to enjoy their surroundings safely, the students decided to take action rather than simply walk past the problem. Their efforts highlight the importance of environmental awareness and responsible citizenship, demonstrating that even small actions can contribute to a cleaner community. The students also used the initiative to remind members of the public that rubbish bins are available and that dog owners have a responsibility to clean up after their pets. Beyond the immediate clean-up, the activity provided the students with an opportunity to learn about teamwork, respect for public spaces and the importance of protecting the environment. It also demonstrated that community service is not limited by age, resources or the size of a group.
After completing their work, the students visited Little Foot together, marking the end of a morning spent giving back to their community. Their initiative serves as a reminder that keeping Swakopmund clean and attractive is a shared responsibility. While six students’ efforts can make a visible difference in one area, lasting change depends on the wider community’s willingness to dispose of waste responsibly and care for public spaces. Sometimes, making a difference starts with something as simple as noticing a problem and deciding to do something about it.
By Sharlien Tjambari
