AfriForum spread its wings wider in the Southern and Western Cape last week by setting up a branch in Oudtshoorn.
AfriForum is a civil rights organisation that aims to mobilise minorities, and specifically Afrikaners, in South Africa and to protect their rights. AfriForum was established in 2006 and is an independent initiative of the trade union Solidarity.
The Oudtshoorn branch was established on the initiative of residents due to growing concern over the town’s poor administration and the provincial government’s unwillingness to tackle maladministration purposefully and effectively.
Oudtshoorn is an important tourist destination with a rich language and cultural heritage. Historic buildings and tourist attractions like the Cango Caves have to be preserved for many more generations to come. The decline that is visible in the town requires immediate attention. Residents therefore felt it was time to come together in bringing about change.
Residents are especially encouraged by AfriForum’s significant contribution to the Oudsthoorn community through its continued focus on, among other things, community, local government, language, cultural and heritage issues. Residents’ involvement in these initiatives could turn Oudtshoorn into the flagship town of the Klein Karoo and the Southern Cape.
George Kersop was elected as Chairperson of the branch and Lizanne Pelham, Chairperson of the Oudtshoorn taxpayers’ association, was elected as Vice-Chairperson during the meeting to found the branch. Suzette Kersop was elected as Treasurer and Secretary.
