Secunda was chosen as a finalist in Kwêla’s competition for Town of the Year on KykNet. If Secunda wins this competition, the town will win R1m towards community projects.

The Groenstrook Gabbas, a local NPO, is driving competition entry and will therefore receive the prize money to use towards their various projects.

This group consists of volunteers who clean the areas in the green strips and duck pond in Secunda.

Nicolene Vere-Russell from the Groenstrook Gabbas made it clear that the money will not go towards Govan Mbeki Municipality, but towards the Groenstrook Gabbas’ work.

Some of the projects for which the money will be used, include removing the invasive hyacinth plants in the duck pond, cleaning up and improving Kwala Park (the area behind OK Grocer, Highveld Ridge Primary School, Coron Park flats and the Sasol townhouses) upgrading 10 bus stops in Secunda, upgrading the play parks in Secunda and creating an area in the green strips that can be used for exercises and for markets.

If there is money left over, the Groenstrook Gabbas are planning on opening a dog park as well and to create a safe, fenced off space for dogs with water stations and a play area for dogs.

A team from Kwêla will audit all the projects that the Groenstrook Gabbas are taking on if Secunda wins and becomes Town of the Year.

To vote for Secunda, send a SMS with the word ‘Secunda’ to 33157. A SMS costs R1.50 and you can send 30 SMSs.

Voting for Secunda Town of the Year closes at 12:00 on July 17.

In an additional competition driven by local businesses, residents stand a chance to win something in a lucky draw if they have voted 30 times.

To win in this lucky draw, send your name and surname to 072 600 2984.