Chris Hanekom says he drives from Kampersrus to Hoedspruit every day and noticed the deterioration of the road in the last few months. He decided to ask for help from the community and approached Christine du Preez, DA councillor for Ward 1. Du Preez donated 40 bags of tar asphalt to help fill the potholes. “The road from Kampersrus going to Hoedspruit, as well as towards The Oaks was riddled with potholes,” he told the Herald.

They started with the first 70 potholes and on Wednesday, March 30 they finished the last 50. “We also want to fix the potholes on the Snake Park road, and hopefully, we will be able to maintain it. Our goal is to fix all the potholes as it affects our businesses,” said Hanekom. He has already found volunteers who are willing to assist with sourcing materials and labour, but are in need of financial assistance. Du Preez thanked Hanekom and the volunteers for their work.

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“If you would like to get involved with this project, please let Lizmari Wolmarans know. This is not for total repair, only patching to eliminate further damage to vehicles and minimise potential accidents,” she said. Wolmarans, chairperson of the Hoedspruit Chamber of Commerce said they are happy to assist with this community-driven project. “A special thanks also goes to Chris and all the volunteers that are assisting with sourcing materials, physical labour, and traffic control, and to the community that is supporting this initiative with friendly hoots, refreshments, financial donations, and words of encouragement.”

She said Hoedspruit has once again shown that they can stand together when it matters. “We have raised over R15 000 and counting. Please drive cautiously to ensure the safety of our volunteers,” she urged. She invited residents to join the chamber to help it to implement initiatives that will preserve, improve and elevate Hoedspruit and the surrounding areas. Call Wolmarans at 083 459 0526 to become a member of the Chamber of Commerce.