AfriForum Nelspruit team leads clean-up
The AfriForum Nelspruit branch, is helping restore neglected public spaces in Mbombela through clean-up operations, minor repairs, and ongoing community-funded maintenance efforts.
The AfriForum Nelspruit branch has taken hands-on action to address declining municipal service delivery in Mbombela through its neighbourhood team initiative, which was launched in August 2025.
According to Lowveld district co-ordinator Arlo van Heerden the initiative was established in response to the visible deterioration of public spaces across the city.
Parks, sidewalks, road verges and communal areas once meant to be safe and welcoming, have in many instances been neglected for long periods, affecting both the city’s appearance and residents’ quality of life.
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“The purpose of the neighbourhood team is simple: to restore pride, cleanliness and order through practical action. We focus on maintaining public spaces, cleaning neglected areas, carrying out minor repairs and creating environments that families and residents can safely enjoy again,” said Van Heerden.
He noted that several parks and open spaces have become hotspots for illegal dumping, substance abuse and public drinking, turning community assets into symbols of urban decay.
Since its launch, the team has remained active on the ground, operating with one vehicle and three full-time workers.
The initiative is entirely funded by contributions from AfriForum members and donations from the community, at an estimated cost of R35 000 per month.
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Regular work is carried out in areas such as the Kaapsehoop Road entrance, sections of Dr Enos Mabuza Drive, Wilger Street Park, Skylab Street Park, Enterprise Street Park and the Steiltes Nature Reserve.
Other focus points include traffic islands along Ferreira Street and key street corners in Steiltes.
Beyond routine cleaning and maintenance, the team has repaired potholes on the Uitkyk Road and in Boog Street, restored and painted playground equipment in Skylab Street Park, cleared overgrown areas, and removed illegal dumping across multiple sites.
Van Heerden said efforts have been made to collaborate with the City of Mbombela through a proposed memorandum of understanding, but progress has been limited.
“Despite challenges, we remain committed to improving our city through community involvement and practical service,” he said.
