In a triumph of dedication, Ke Kasi Ya Rona, a community initiative committed to establishing a rodent-free Alexandra, has surpassed all expectations by breaking a record in the extermination of rats. Following an ardent four-months, the efforts of the ambassadors of Ke Kasi Ya Rona have borne fruit, with an astounding tally of over 5,000 rats exterminated to date. Between February and May 2023, these Alex trailblazers managed to eradicate an impressive population count of 5,026 rodents.
Liziwe Ntshinga-Makoro, the Regional Director of Region E, says Ke Kasi Ya Rona aims to galvanise the entire community of Alex against the pervasive rodent infestation, a pressing public health concern that plagues impoverished urban communities across the country.
“Our comprehensive rodent control strategy encompasses both the physical and psychological risks posed by rat infestations in Alexandra,” Ntshinga-Makoro says.
She notes that the campaign aims to educate and instill environmental consciousness within the residents of Alex, urging them to accept responsibility for the cleanliness of their surroundings.
Supervising the Ke Kasi Ya Rona ambassadors is Arthur Jacobs, a seasoned professional with a background in pest control, who came out of retirement to lend his expertise to the training of approximately 150 anti-rodent ambassadors.
With an impressive 36 years of experience in the field, Jacobs has spearheaded the efficient management of rodent control in Alex following the introduction of innovative baiting methods.
“To attract the rats, I introduced the use of vanilla essence due to its pungent aroma. Moreover, students brought to my attention the efficacy of carapau, which proved equally effective,” explains Jacobs.
The Ke Kasi Ya Rona ambassadors have set their sights on a new target: the extermination of over 12,000 rodents by the end of December.
“Prompt action should be taken to address rodent infestations, as their population can increase at an alarming rate. Rodent offspring are born approximately 22 days after mating and reach sexual maturity within a mere three months,” warns Jacobs.
Written by Tumisho Refilwe Matsane
08/06/2023