AfriForum North of the Berg/Mountain is celebrating a year of relentless dedication, community action, and visible change across north neighbourhoods.

From fixing potholes to clearing overgrown sidewalks, the branch has taken on the responsibility of restoring areas that have long suffered from neglect, an effort powered entirely by committed volunteers and supportive residents.

According to branch spokesperson Llewellynn Hemmens, the motivation behind their work is simple but powerful: “Where the municipality shrugs its shoulders, we roll up our sleeves. Our message is clear, Ons Sal Self.”

Throughout the year, the branch has tackled a range of infrastructure challenges.

Volunteers have repaired roads, cleaned public spaces, trimmed unsafe overgrowth, and restored areas that had become hotspots for crime and illegal dumping.

Hemmens said these projects not only improve the appearance of the community but also help reclaim public spaces for residents, making areas from Kameeldrift through to Vissershoek safer and more liveable.

But with growth comes need, and Hemmens mentioned the branch’s increasing responsibilities highlight the necessity for more resources.

“Every member and every donation strengthens our hand. The challenges are big, and we need our community to stand with us.”

One of the biggest needs currently facing the branch is an emergency response vehicle that can be used for fires, medical incidents, patrols, and disaster-related emergencies.

Hemmens emphasised that such a vehicle would significantly improve response times and strengthen neighbourhood safety for thousands of residents.

The branch is also seeking an additional vehicle to expand its neighbourhood watch operations.

He said another critical requirement is a tractor with a slasher attachment, a vital tool to keep roadside grass short and prevent criminals from using dense overgrowth as concealment.

“Something as simple as cutting grass can prevent crime. Safety doesn’t start with fences; it starts with visibility.”

The north branch has also launched a comprehensive camera project aimed at monitoring all entry and exit points within the branch’s jurisdiction.

Hemmens said the goal is to stop criminal activity before it escalates, as this initiative will work hand-in-hand with advanced tools such as thermal imaging equipment and Bumblebee technology (cameras) to detect intruders at night.

The branch also hopes to establish a K9 unit, and Hemmens appealed to anyone with expertise or resources to contribute.

“A K9 unit will give us an edge in search operations, tracking, and night patrols. Anyone who can help us make this a reality is urged to come forward.”

Hemmens also called on residents to become part of the movement to restore their community.

“Every person in our branch is critical to achieving this vision. Together, we can reclaim North of the Berg and make it a place we can all be proud of.”

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok or WhatsApp Channel