Our Ward Matters brings fresh hope to Rustenburg

Rustenburg – From bush cutting to clothing donations, Our Ward Matters (OWM) is proving that teamwork and care make our community brighter, safer, and more united. Led by André van Dyk and Cllr Tanya Rothman, and supported by their hardworking EPWP team, the initiative serves both Ward 17 and Ward 16 (Geelhoutpark). Week after week, their boots-on-the-ground efforts transform overgrown, neglected areas into open, welcoming spaces for all residents.

Cleaning Up for Safety – 3 September
On 3 September, the OWM team returned to Witstinkhout, opposite house 22, to finish what they had started. A skip, arranged through Rustenburg Local Municipality’s Waste Department by Cllr Tanya Rothman, was filled with branches and garden refuse while brushcutters cleared the overgrown veld. The result: improved visibility and safer surroundings for residents.

Restoring the Rivers – 4 September
On 4 September, attention turned to the Rivers area, where grass was creeping into the roads and long growth made walkways unsafe. The OWM team removed overgrowth and carried out extensive de-bushing from Watervalrivier, past the water canal at Krokodilrivier, nearly all the way to Helen Joseph. The transformation was remarkable — what was once cluttered and overrun is now neat, open, and safer. Plans for the Rivers’ next clean-up will be announced soon.

Building a Sustainable Future – 8 September
By 8 September, the focus shifted to Timbati Veld, where volunteers picked up rubbish, cut grass, removed encroaching growth, raked leaves, and revived local gardens. One member even cleaned up the Azaleapark to Waterfall Mall route. Waste was carefully bagged in yellow refuse bags for collection.

Main photo: The awesome OWM team — community heroes who prove that small actions add up to big change.

WANT TO HELP?
Contact André (076?057?1669), Ilse (078?258?6620), or Ronel (072?854?8965).
Banking details: Our Ward Matters | FNB | Acc: 63038972641 | Branch: 258055 | Ref: OWM