On 19 October 2018, 27 people died on the N1 between Mookgophong and Modimolle. Among them were two beloved residents of Polokwane, Pierre and Erika Bantjes.
In memory of her sister and brother-in-law, Colinda Potgieter came up with the idea to put up 27 windmills on the farm next to where the incident occured.
“I have a good relationship with the owner of the land and shortly after the incident we planted 27 white crosses to remember those who lost their lives.
Erika loved windmills and now I have decided to put up windmills to raise awareness. The area is classified as a high accident zone, with accidents on this road an almost every day occurrence.
I want to urge people to slow down, get off their cellphones or even just to stop and rest when they are tired.
When you see one windmill it is not as impressive as when you see 27 windmills, it leaves a lasting impression. This will be a monument for everyone who lost their lives on this road,” Colinda says.
Colinda says she would appreciate any donation even if it is just a part of a windmill. “Any part, I have people who can assemble it. It does not need to be in a working condition. I am also looking for someone who would be willing to erect the windmills on the farm. If all goes well the windmills will be up by 12 and 13 December.”
Anyone willing to assist can contact Colinda at 082 898 8341.
Story: Maretha Swanepoel
