A Message of Gratitude
[letter from André van Dyk]
As this year draws to a close, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has walked this journey with me and helped shape the success of Our Ward Matters.
To Cllr Tanya Rothman — thank you for standing beside me from the very beginning. Your leadership, support, and willingness to take hands with OWM have made some of our biggest projects possible. From the massive clean-ups in the Rivers area and across Ward 17, to Pendoring “spruitjie,” Cycad, Santolina, and our ongoing work around water canals and illegal dumping hotspots — your commitment has helped us transform entire neighbourhoods. OWM’s major pothole project in Ward 17, along with your constant support for our team in Ward 16, has made a remarkable impact.
To Cllr Jean Keyser — thank you for your guidance, teamwork, and the important role you played in the projects we tackled together. Your involvement in addressing community concerns, especially around safety and illegal squatters, has strengthened our ability to protect and uplift both Wards 16 and 17. Your support in confronting illegal dumping, and the awareness videos we created together, have truly made a difference.
To Michael Rothman — thank you for your dedication, your willingness to learn and lead, and for always stepping in when the team needs you. Your steady presence means more than you know.
To every resident of Ward 16 and Ward 17 who donates, supports, encourages, or simply believes in our work — you are the reason this is possible. Whether you contribute petrol, bags, PPE, brushcutter repairs, food, cooldrinks, or financial support, every donation becomes action. You are part of every clean-up, every restored space, every safer street.
Thank you to the RLM Waste Department for your ongoing support: collecting refuse bags, providing skips, and working hand-in-hand with us. This partnership shows what is possible when community and municipality unite — a cleaner, safer, stronger Rustenburg for all.
I am truly humbled and grateful.
Together, we have proven that one act of service at a time can change a street, uplift a ward, and inspire a city.
Here’s to even greater things in 2026!
André van Dyk
Our Ward Matters
