Originally published on 30 January 2025

In Mahikeng, North West province, a heartening display of community spirit saw residents banding together to fix pothole-ridden roads, proving the power of collaboration in improving local infrastructure.

What was the problem?

The residents of Mahikeng were facing daily frustrations due to the deteriorating condition of their roads. Potholes had become a common feature, making driving hazardous and damaging vehicles. These poor road conditions not only inconvenienced residents but also hindered access for emergency services and local businesses, impacting the overall quality of life in the community. The local municipality's slow response to the problem further exacerbated the situation.

How did they fix it?

Driven by a desire to improve their surroundings and address the lack of action from the authorities, the community members decided to take action. They organised themselves, got the necessary permissions, pooled their resources and volunteered their time and labour to repair the potholes and make their roads safer and more accessible.

So, how did they do it?

• Community mobilisation and organisation: The initiative began with residents identifying the worst-affected areas and organising themselves into smaller groups to fix specific sections of the roads. This grassroots approach ensured that the repair efforts were targeted and efficient.

• Resource pooling and fundraising: Lacking support from the local government, the community members took it upon themselves to raise the necessary funds to purchase the materials needed for the road repairs. They organised fundraising events, collected donations from local businesses and contributed their own money to the cause. This collective effort demonstrated their commitment to improving their community.

• Collaboration with local businesses: Recognising the value of partnerships, the community members reached out to local businesses for support. Several businesses offered in-kind donations of materials, equipment and expertise. This collaboration fostered a sense of shared responsibility and strengthened ties within the community.

• Hands-on involvement and volunteer labour: Equipped with shovels, wheelbarrows and other basic tools, the community members volunteered their time and labour to fill the potholes and repair the damaged sections of the roads. Despite facing challenging conditions and limited resources, they persevered, working tirelessly to make their roads safer and more accessible for all.

• Advocacy for long-term solutions: While the community's efforts provided a temporary solution to the pothole problem, they also used the opportunity to advocate for long-term improvements to the local municipality. They engaged with local authorities, highlighting the need for sustainable road maintenance and investment in the community's future.

Acknowledgements

Author: Danie Kruger

Original article: Community of Pienaarspoort repair their roads

Photograph: Danie Kruger

Get your community involved

Is there a community-driven group or caring business in your area? A dedicated group of committed people can effectively solve local problems.

Think about starting or joining community groups like a street WhatsApp group, residents' association, or community policing forum (CPF) to get help and to stay informed and involved in local issues.

How to set up a community group

How to start a WhatsApp group

How to start a residents' association

How to set up a community policing forum

How to set up a neighbourhood watch

How to organise community action

How to use media to create pressure for change

Know your rights – how local government works

It’s important to understand how your local government works so that you can work with them to support what they are doing while your community continues to keep them accountable and deliver services on time. Remember you have a constitutional right to many of the services provided by local government, as well as to accountability and transparency, wherever you live and regardless of how much you earn. It is also where money collected from taxes and rates goes.