Chris Motsane has been a resident of Orange Hof, in Geduld, since 2012. His experiences when he became a resident in the area were a bit tough for him because of illegal dumping and crime.
He said there were often robberies and that brought discomfort to him and his family.
“This place was filthy because people were treating it like a dumping site. There were a lot of muggings and drug addicts. The only thing I thought of was to turn it into a safe environment,” said Motsane.
In 2013 Motsane started a project to transform Sunday Park into a clean and safe environment.
“Before I even started, I went to the municipality to ask them if they can give me the authority to take care of Sunday Park, which they did. I started by cutting grass, clearing, planting flowers and making this place more attractive. I used all my savings to continue with the project,” he said.
Even though the community gave him a tough time in keeping the environment clean he did not give up.
“I would wake up the next day and find people still dumping in the area while they could see how clean it had become. It was really difficult to understand. Why would someone see you bringing something positive in the neighbourhood but not even be considerate?” Motsane said.
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Day by day he would go through the turmoil but he believed in his vision of a safe and clean environment.
“Some local businesses and community members supported what I was trying to achieve, and still do till this day. I am thankful and there is still more I want to do to this park.”
Motsane seeks sponsorship to maintain the park since he uses his own finances.
“It becomes a lot for me because I have a family that I need to take care of. It would help if I could get grass cutters to continue with my work. Hiring them becomes a lot for me and delays the work,” he said.
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Other welcome additions would be jungle gyms for children who want to play outside and also getting the area fenced off to prevent pollution.
Motsane has a carwash that he uses to support his family and maintain the park in the area.
“I want to make this place profitable so that I also create job employment. I am currently alone because I cannot afford to pay anyone since I have to make a plan in making sure this park is well maintained,” said Motsane.
He would also like council to intervene in the project and see where they can assist.
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