When poverty strikes, the dumping site comes to the rescue

FRANCISTOWN: Conditions at litter dumping sites in general are hair-raising to say the least.

They exhibit dirt and a smell that defeats the senses of smell, yet poverty stricken people are a common sight at these landfills, scavenging to fill their stomachs with any rotten edibles. The Francistown dumping site or commonly the landfill depicts many pictures of what poverty can transform one into. The landfill is located on the eastern side of the city along the road leading to the Ramokgwebana border. Just as one hits the right turn, the stinking smell fills the air, threatening to suffocate the traveller.

The landfill has anything one can think of, including rotten foodstuffs and fruits, stinking rotten meat and dead animals, especially dogs with huge worms feasting on them. Strolling and feasting on the rotten meat also, would be a swarm of vultures. Despite its sordid state, people spend the whole day there, some as per their jobs whilst others come here habitually driven by poverty to look for something to eat. People of all ages and ethnicity can be found at this dumping site. They narrated how living conditions compelled them to come and make a living at the site. Some recycle cans, some plastic bottles just to make a living. Some of these people are employees of private litter recycling companies who are hired to collect items like beer cans and plastic bottles for their employers. There are also some people who illegally access this place just to get something to eat.

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

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