Community project to uplift and develop Eersterust
The model implemented by the CUP Ward 43 leadership is based on a holistic approach that integrates economic development, social services, and infrastructure improvements.
An ambitious project in Eersterust is set to establish the neighbourhood as an example of social cohesion and develop its urban space.
In the Tshwane metro, no other ward has an approved Community Upliftment Precinct (CUP) covering and catering for the entire ward.
Kicking off with this mandate, the Ward 43 CUP in Eersterust tackled its first project on the weekend of February 8 with a cleaning project at the entrance to the suburb from the Silverton side.
“With this and future projects we want to give residents a sense of hope and direction by showing them that positive change is possible. Such projects foster community circumstantial ownership, reduce feelings of neglect and helplessness, and create opportunities for social cohesion. By improving public spaces, infrastructure, and economic opportunities, the project can also reduce crime and substance abuse, contributing to a healthier, safer, prouder, and more motivated community,” said Arnold Adams, Ward 43 CUP spokesperson.
The first tangible projects, such as the February 8 project, include the launch of the entrance renewal project, support for graveyard cleaning, and the mobilisation of community blocks.
“By letting our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. The transformation of Eersterust begins with each of us recognising our ability to make a difference and stepping forward with courage, purpose, and action.”
For these first projects, they have collaborated with institutions such as Hope and Victory Outreach.
The idea for the Ward 43 CUP originated from the Eersterust Community Development Forum’s broader vision to create a structured and sustainable approach to community development in the ward.
“It was born out of the realisation that isolated efforts were not making a lasting impact, and there was a need for a consolidated initiative to drive economic and social change in the area. The concept was developed through discussions with key community stakeholders, academics, and urban development experts,” said Adams.
A CUP in South Africa, particularly within the metro, is a designated area where local communities actively partner with the municipality to improve and maintain their neighbourhoods through initiatives like cleaning public spaces, repairing infrastructure and beautification projects.
He explained the Ward 43 CUP forms part of a broader initiative, which is the establishment of an Internal Municipal Service District in Ward 43.
The registration process involved extensive consultations with the metro, legal compliance checks, and strategic planning to align it with municipal development frameworks.
A CUP Memorandum of Agreement was signed with the city manager and the regional head of Region 6.
This allows for service-level agreements with the metro, ensuring a structured approach to development.
According to Adams, at present there is no direct funding from the metro.
“We are actively working on a funding strategy that includes corporate sponsorships, partnerships with institutions, and community-driven fundraising initiatives. The long-term goal is to secure municipal support while also ensuring financial sustainability through private sector involvement and self-reliant community-funded projects.”
On the cards for the rest of the year, they are hosting community engagement sessions to get public input and buy-in. They will launch pilot projects focusing on urban renewal, safety, and economic empowerment as well as strengthening partnerships with academic institutions, NGOs, and private sector investors.
A major concern for Adams regarding the success of the projects is “the tendency of our community to focus on the negative aspects of social, environmental, and infrastructural issues rather than taking proactive steps to address them”.
He said instead of mobilising solutions, there often is a preference for blaming the government and councillors.
He explained the CUP envisions restoring a sense of pride among residents and encouraging collective ownership of the community’s future.
Adams has challenged businesses and individuals with the means and resources to contact him to get involved with the challenge of delivering the mandate of the Ward 43 CUP on 062 443 4273.
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