Chrissiesmeer volunteers helping restore pride in the town

Written on July 22, 2026
Gideon Muteb



Image: Afriforum Website

A community-led waste management initiative in Chrissiesmeer is continuing to make a visible difference, with more than 530 bags of rubbish removed since the start of the year as part of AfriForum's expanding bin project.

The project, which began just over a year ago, was established to help address ongoing refuse collection challenges in the area. According to AfriForum, 99 bags of rubbish were collected during June alone, while strategically placed bins have provided residents and visitors with a cleaner way to dispose of waste. The organisation says local businesses have reported positive feedback from tourists, who have noticed the improved cleanliness of the town.

Beyond the waste removal initiative, the local AfriForum branch has also taken responsibility for maintaining the town cemetery through regular grass cutting and recently assisted a family from Mbombela by restoring the grave of a loved one. Branch chairperson Millicent van den Heever said the group receives requests for additional community projects on a weekly basis and, despite limited resources, continues to find ways to assist wherever possible.



Image: The restored grave after AfriForum's Chrissiesmeer branch stepped in to clean and rehabilitate the site. | Afriforum Website

AfriForum has encouraged residents and local businesses to become involved in ongoing efforts to maintain and improve Chrissiesmeer. The organisation says projects driven by community volunteers not only contribute to a cleaner environment but also help preserve the town's appeal as a tourism destination.