Drimiopsis is a diverse settlement just 40km outside Gobabis, with a population size of +-1000 of which a large number are San. The two Schools Mokganedi Thlabanello Secondary and Drimiopsis Primary School make up most of the population numbers, besides the agricultural activities supported by Ministry of Land and Resettlement (MLR) covered under LISUP 4 (Livelihood Support Program) through the Desert Research Foundation of Namibia there are other activities that the community members engage in such as: crafts, minor construction/reparation works, security services, teaching and piece-work. Life on the farm is overall tough due scarcity of employment opportunities. For two weeks, with assistance from LISUP 4, the head of households and their families, have come together to put trash where it belongs— in rubbish dumps or trash bins— and not on the ground. The cleanup campaign was based on two legs; to create and maintain a clean, healthy environment and to be a motivation to other communities in Omaheke. The cleaning campaign kicked off with a cheerful and energized community meeting to address expectations, duration of the campaign, areas which needed to be cleaned, collection points, safety precautions and close off activities. The 16 Community committee members were assigned a location each to lead, encourage and support. With health and safety-first mindset, the members were provided with gloves, masks and rubbish bags curtesy of MLR, MoHSS and DRFN. As inspiration, the Office of Hon. Councilor Ignatius Gariseb donated a floating trophy and a N$ 500.00 to the community. The success of the activity was celebrated with a community meeting and selection of the cleanest locations in order of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd winners. With Klein Kanyemba, Droe land, and 7nde land wining 1st, 2nd and 3rd places respectively the rest of the locations vowed to work harder next time to win the trophy. Third and second place winners both received certificates. “Keeping a clean and healthy environment can only be maintained when people make use of designated areas to throw away rubbish, keep their homes clean and have pride in their farm” – Chairman of Community Committee Mr Dawids. “As the Drimiopsis community we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude towards Hon. Councilor Mr. Ignatius Gariseb, Ms. Elmarie du Plessis of MoHSS, staff of MLR -Gobabis and The Desert Research Foundation of Namibia for the support to make our cleaning campaign a success” – Community Committee member, Mr Michael Kandovazu.
