AfriForum’s Jeffreys Bay branch helps reduce traffic congestion

The AfriForum branch in Jeffreys Bay tackled a pioneering project in cooperation with the Kouga Local Municipality. Two T-junctions were widened and a feeding lane was added to improve the traffic flow to the benefit of all residents. The two junctions under discussion are where Koraal Street and Disa Avenue respectively join St. Francis Road. It is well-known that Jeffreys Bay’s visitors by far exceed the number of residents during peak holiday seasons. This places the infrastructure under enormous pressure which brings about all types of frustrations and consequently negatively affects the tourism industry.

Dries du Preez, a member of the Jeffreys Bay branch management and an engineer and developer by trade, was in charge of matters relating to this project from AfriForum’s side. “More than a year’s labour, sweat and planning were worth it in the end. We are extremely proud of the project.” The original plan was to replace the four way stop at the fuel station in St. Francis Road with a traffic circle, but unfortunately the current layout of the fuel station’s access routes made this impossible. AfriForum hopes to also tackle this problem in the future.

Hattingh Borman, Speaker of the Kouga Local Municipality, expressed his gratitude for this initiative on behalf of the council. He mentioned that cooperation with AfriForum’s Jeffreys Bay branch takes place in a very positive manner and that they are relieved that the project could be completed despite many challenges – also on the political front. AfriForum’s Jeffrey’s Bay branch and the Municipality shared the costs of the project, which amounted to approximately R340 000.

Danie Fouche, Chairperson of AfriForum’s Jeffreys Bay branch, thanked the Municipality for their positive attitude. “We are looking forward to expanding our cooperation in the future to the benefit of the entire community.”

Arno Greyling, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for the Southern Cape, also praised both parties for their teamwork. “This action is a good example of our plans for the future. Cooperation is essential to promote ownership within our communities despite all the unique challenges it comprises. We want to invite the public to become involved at the organisation – together we rise above present-day challenges to truly make South Africa a better place for all of us.”