This, according to local businessman, Jakes Jooste, during the the launch of the Matjhabeng Community Forum.

The event, hosted by the local business community and the Executive Mayor of Matjhabeng, Thanduxolo Khalipha, was attended by roughly 300 business men and women across Matjhabeng.

Jooste, in an interview with OFM News, said it's high time the local community gets involved - as it is the only way to rejuvenate local economy.

Mayor Khalipa also pledged his support to the initiative, adding Matjhabeng's people must unite to rebuild the city of Welkom.

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Meanwhile, Khalipha confirmed an amount of R1.8 billion has been received from the National Treasury, of which R64 million will be set aside to renew water and sewage treatment around Matjhabeng.

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Philip van der Merwe tabled their plan and gave the business model they will use to achieve this vision.

He also said the benefits of the project include that Matjhabeng will have clean towns, fewer potholes, security in the residential areas to curb criminal activities, and that the business community will be involved in the Integrated Development Plan of the Municipality.

OFM News/Isaac Mosia