Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Jean Keyser
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Rustenburg, in partnership with Our Ward Matters (NPC), Geelhout Gardens, and local residents, has successfully conducted a large-scale clean-up operation along Kremetart Avenue in Geelhoutpark addressing illegal dumping, overgrown vegetation, and informal structures that have compromised public safety and cleanliness in the area (see photos here, here, and here).
The initiative was launched on Friday, 10 October 2025, following a community Facebook post that raised concerns about the growing dumping problem and the presence of illegal occupants near Geelhout Gardens. What began as a simple alert soon became a strong example of teamwork and civic responsibility.
The clean-up saw active participation from the Rustenburg Local Municipality (RLM) Waste Department, Our Ward Matters (NPC), DA councillors, and volunteers. Together, they cleared both sides of Kremetart Avenue, removed refuse, and restored visibility and safety in the affected area. The RLM Waste Department collected refuse bags, while teams from Our Ward Matters and the DA focused on clearing reeds and overgrown grass near the informal dwellings in Geelhout Gardens and Manuka Avenue.
Special recognition is extended to Geelhout Gardens Management, who contributed staff and resources to assist with reed-cutting along their property, an example of effective collaboration between residents, the private sector, and local leadership.
To ensure the process was handled lawfully and respectfully, Public Safety and Law Enforcement were called in to manage the removal of remaining materials near informal dwellings. This approach ensured compliance with municipal procedures while maintaining community dignity.
The clean-up was supported by members of Our Ward Matters, DA Rustenburg councillors, and local activists, who also set up a DA gazebo to engage with residents and share progress updates. The operation drew positive feedback from residents, many of whom expressed appreciation for the visible improvement in their surroundings.
On Sunday, 12 October 2025, the efforts continued as Law Enforcement and the RLM Waste Department returned to the site with two tipper trucks and a front-end loader to complete the final phase of the clean-up. Law Enforcement officers maintained a professional presence throughout, ensuring order and safety as the area was fully restored.
This operation marks a significant breakthrough for Geelhoutpark and surrounding communities demonstrating that when residents, local organisations, and the DA work together, real progress is achieved.
The DA Rustenburg thanks all involved, including Our Ward Matters (NPC), Geelhout Gardens, the RLM Waste Department, Law Enforcement, and the residents of Geelhoutpark for their dedication and collaboration.
The DA remains committed to practical, community-driven solutions that deliver real change and restore pride in Rustenburg’s neighbourhoods.