Maxie Badenhorst, Hennenman:
As we navigate our daily lives, we often encounter challenges on our paths that we wish someone would address.
On the R70 road between Hennenman and Ventersburg, a group of four young boys has taken it upon themselves to be the unsung heroes we all need. They are the Pothole Warriors, and their story is one of determination, courage, and community spirit.
Every morning, these young boys arrive early, armed with their buckets and a spade, ready to tackle the potholes that plague the road.
They fill these road craters with gravel and clay they gather from the roadside, risking their safety as heavy-duty vehicles and speeding motorists race past. Their dedication to making the road safer for all road users is nothing short of inspiring.
Their earnings come from the tips given by grateful motorists who appreciate the hard work and dedication of these young entrepreneurs.
On average, they earn between R100 to R200 per day, which they share among themselves. To put this in perspective, that can be as little as R25 per day for working from before 8:00 in the morning to about 16:00 in the afternoon. Yet, despite the meagre compensation, they continue with their mission daily, proving that their commitment goes far beyond financial gain.
Their efforts are a glaring testament to the failure of authorities to address a pressing issue.
Less than 18 months ago, a contractor was appointed to fix the potholes on the R70.
However, the workmanship proved to be of such poor quality that the road is now in a worse state than before.
Meanwhile, traffic officials, police officers, and government officials use this road regularly, witnessing the distress of stranded motorists with damaged tires. These motorists often require costly towing services, all due to the negligence in maintaining the road.
The Pothole Warriors are not alone in their mission. Farther down the road, closer to the Ventersburg exit, other groups of youngsters have also taken it upon themselves to earn a living while saving the day for fellow motorists.
As users of the R70 road, it is essential that we acknowledge and appreciate these brave warriors.
The next time you pass by, spare a moment for these unsung heroes, and maybe consider leaving them something to brighten their day — whether it be a smile, a wave, or a small token of appreciation.
Their dedication reminds us that ordinary individuals can make an extraordinary impact when they take action to fill the gaps left by those in authority.
In a world often marred by apathy and indifference, the Pothole Warriors stand as a shining example of how a small group of determined individuals can make a significant difference.
