JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa has raised concerns over the growing public health crisis caused by poor waste management and the misuse of harmful pesticides in communities.

WATCH: Discussions | How serious is the rat problem in Gauteng?

Speaking in an address to the nation on Friday evening, Ramaphosa highlighted the link between environmental neglect, rat infestations and the increase in food-borne illnesses which have claimed the lives of several children.

He noted that part of the problem is the inability of local municipalities to manage their environmental health responsibilities.

Nicolle de Bruyn, chief executive of the Waste Management Institute of Southern Africa, discussed this with eNCA.