Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English by Joe McGluwa and in Afrikaans by Tanya Rothman
In response to the worsening state of Rustenburg’s roads, the Democratic Alliance (DA), local residents, civil organisations like Our Ward Matters, and businesses have taken direct action to repair potholes, restore road safety, and pressure government for long-term solutions.
DA ward councillors are providing tools, materials, and coordination support, while residents have formed repair teams and businesses have donated resources.
The condition of Rustenburg’s roads has reached a critical point, with potholes posing hazards not only to vehicles but also to pedestrians. Residents and commuters have voiced increasing concern, citing rising vehicle maintenance costs, accidents, and daily delays. With limited progress from official channels, the community made the bold decision to act independently.
While the Rustenburg Local Municipality has been unable to supply sufficient tools and materials, it has provided Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers to assist. Andre van Dyk, Chairperson of the DA Branch in Ward 17, is actively participating in daily repair work. (See picture here and here.)
So far, 337 potholes have been repaired in just 84 hours, with over R30,000 raised and 259 bags of asphalt used—115 more are ready for deployment.
This movement stands as a powerful example of a community’s resilience and ingenuity. Yet it also serves as a stark reminder that systemic changes are needed to ensure that such crises do not recur.
Additionally, organisers were proud to announce that a community cleanup will take place on 22 and 23 May in Geelhoutpark Ward 16, Rustenburg.
The people of Rustenburg have made it clear: they are ready to lead when necessary, but they expect their government to support them with meaningful, long-overdue action. For over 30 years, infrastructure neglect has taken its toll.
Ongoing oversight by Luan Snyders, DA Caucus Leader in Rustenburg, and Joe McGluwa, Member of Parliament, further demonstrates the DA’s commitment to supporting these community-driven efforts.
With momentum building and more residents joining the cause, the DA and its supporters are determined to stop the decay that the community has worked so hard to reverse.
As efforts continue to repair and restore, hope remains that this movement will spark broader, lasting improvements in Rustenburg’s infrastructure.