A new civilian-led movement, TidyNMB, aims to transform Nelson Mandela Bay into South Africa’s tidiest metropolitan area by 2028.
This ambitious initiative brings together residents, businesses, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, law enforcement, the business chamber, ward councilors, the traffic department, churches, schools, and community organizations in a collaborative effort to tackle cleanliness across the region.
At its core, TidyNMB believes that unity and love are essential to achieving its goals.
The movement is spearheading a citywide competition to identify and reward the Bay’s tidiest neighborhood and ward, with winners receiving public recognition and prizes.
According to Dr. Johann Malherbe, founder of TidyNMB, “This is about creating a culture of pride and ownership in our communities. By working together, we can make Nelson Mandela Bay a model of cleanliness for other South African metros to follow.”
TidyNMB has already secured significant partnerships, including Grey High School, which will host the movement’s Metro Awards ceremony. Notably, 60% of ticket sales from Grey’s upcoming music concert in August will support the movement’s activities.
The mayor and several ward councilors are expected to attend the ceremony.
The initiative not only focuses on cleanliness but also creates meaningful employment opportunities.
Workers from the Missionvale Care Centre, certified as job market ready, form the backbone of the on-the-ground cleaning efforts.
Matt Hogarty, founder of LoveCities, who was recently invited to share his expertise, expressed optimism about the initiative and similar initiatives, like LoveNelsonMandelaBay and other, throughout the Eastern Cape.
“Great partnerships are the key to changing the world. We’re better together. Complaining won’t help—do what you can in your little corner, with what you have.”
He also stressed the importance of creating narratives of change and making places beautiful, saying, “People are attracted to beauty. Your words create your world.”
