PHALABORWA – Just five months after its establishment, non-profit organisation Phalaborwa First has invested nearly R300 000 in pothole repairs and installed 11 CCTV camera stations to improve safety in the town.

Co-founder Ruan du Preez told the Herald the organisation was proud of what it had achieved in such a short time through community support.

“To date, we have installed 11 CCTV camera stations and repaired potholes in Kierieklapper, Grey and Tulbach streets, with close to R300 000 invested in road repairs alone,” he said.

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CCTV network to expand

According to Du Preez, cable theft has virtually stopped in areas covered by the cameras. Another four camera stations are planned for installation over the next two months, with further expansion dependent on funding.

The organisation recently held a community feedback meeting at Laerskool Phalaborwa (Groenskool), where residents shared suggestions and discussed future projects. Du Preez said community participation was essential in identifying priorities and ensuring the organisation remained focussed on improving the town.

Community support remains key

Phalaborwa First currently has 50 corporate members committed to contributing R1 500 a month and 96 individual members pledging R350 each. This represents a potential monthly income of R108 600.

However, Du Preez said contributions were not always received consistently, limiting the funds available for projects. He encouraged more residents and businesses to join and existing members to maintain regular payments.

He said the organisation had laid a solid foundation but acknowledged that much work remained. The next community feedback meeting, covering projects undertaken between October and January, is scheduled for February 18.

For more information about membership or sponsorships, contact 082 776 3668, 076 094 7310 or 083 627 2892.