FROM OVERGROWN TO OUTSTANDING!
OWM takes back its streets
Platinum Weekly newspaper | Rustenburg – Visible action speaks louder than promises — and throughout late January and early February, Our Ward Matters (OWM) demonstrated exactly that through consistent, hands-on clean-ups across Wards 16 and 17.
From giving back to vital community organisations to restoring visibility, clearing illegal dumping, and improving safety, the focus remains clear: small daily habits lead to BIG community change.
Our Ward Cares giving back with heart
On 30 January, Our Ward Matters (Our Ward Cares) proudly handed over a meaningful donation to Hospice Rustenburg, collected over the past year from Ward 17 residents. Hospice Rustenburg provides compassionate care and dignity to patients and families during life’s most difficult times. The handover was conducted by Jonas Mokhini, Ilse du Preez, and André van Dyk alongside Cllr Tanya Rothman. When a community cares, it shows.
Massive clean-up, 2 February
Teams spent two full days in Stamvrug Avenue clearing dense overgrowth, removing illegal dumping, and loading two sponsored skips. Hidden waste and squatting concerns were uncovered even in areas considered “safe.” Work extended toward Witstinkhout Avenue, Kruger Street, Lepelhout Avenue, and near Wildevy Centre, with security presence ensuring safe operations.
Continuing the momentum, 3 February
On 3 February, teams returned to Stamvrug Avenue toward Witstinkhout to continue brushcutting and debushing. A second team worked at Wildevy and Kruger Street removing rubbish and illegal advertising boards. Fidelity ADT Security hosted a visibility promotion with armed response patrolling nearby work zones, reinforcing that safety remains a top priority.
THE WARD 17 CLEAN-UP CHALLENGE, 4–5 FEBRUARY
The highlight of the fortnight was a spirited clean-up challenge between two OWM teams — bringing energy and momentum to large-scale operations. Team “Big Brothers,” led by Cllr Tanya Rothman and Michael, cleaned behind TOTAL Tuscany Garage, worked along Helen Joseph to Arend Road, and tackled Timbati veld. The “A-Team,” led by André van Dyk, cleared heavy overgrowth and dumping from Protea Avenue through Cuckoo and Elandsrivier toward Waterberg. Both teams focused on litter removal, visibility, and safety. In just two days:
- 68 litres of petrol were used
- Equipment endured heavy strain, with one brushcutter breaking
- Overtime was worked to complete major sections
Who won? A draw! Because the real winner was Ward 17. The challenge proved that when teamwork meets purpose, transformation happens quickly — and powerfully.
Canal and storm drain clean-up, 9 February
On 9 February, Our Ward Matters, together with Michael and Cllr Tanya Rothman, cleared the water canal from Watervalrivier toward Krokodilrivier, finishing near Helen Joseph on the Kgaswane side. Dense vegetation was removed, grass cut back, and storm drains on both sides of the street cleaned to improve safety and prevent blockages.
This area is regularly maintained to ensure it remains open, visible, and safe for residents.
Opening up Essenhout Avenue, 10 February
A challenging task awaited the team in Essenhout Avenue, where thick vegetation was pushing into the roadway and limiting visibility. Using brushcutters, pangas, and spades, the team cleared and debushed the space leading toward the highway and behind residential properties. A skip arranged through the RLM Waste Department was delivered and fully loaded. Residents supported the effort with donations and refreshments, while a second team worked opposite Wildevy Centre cutting grass in Wildevy and Moepel Avenue.
The focus remains simple: a clean area is a safer area.
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
Together, we clean. Together, we care. Together, Our Ward Matters.
