Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Bheki C. Simelane
Published on 2024-04-18 21:03:22
Mgebe Ndlayuvulwa (52) is a resident of Protea South, who starts his day by swinging his black wheelie bin onto the pavement on Cadbury Street. The bin is empty in the morning, but by afternoon, it is filled with recyclable bottles that he collects to supplement his small income. Ndlayuvulwa also earns money by fixing shoes in Lenasia and working for Supreme, a waste removal company. Despite his efforts, he struggles to provide for his family and faces financial hardship.
Ndlayuvulwa’s story is not unique in Protea South, where many residents are facing similar challenges. The community has lost trust in the police and now relies on the local Community Policing Forum (CPF) or resorts to mob justice. A recent incident where a man was fatally shot by a police officer has led to clashes between the community and the South African Police Service (SAPS), resulting in violence and protests.
The high crime rate in the area has left residents feeling unsafe, with incidents of robberies and house break-ins occurring regularly. The CPF works closely with the police, but the lack of police resources and slow response times are major concerns for the community. Political parties in the area, including the ANC, DA, EFF, and Al Jama-ah, have been actively involved, but some residents feel that these parties are more focused on political posturing than addressing the community’s needs.
As the national and provincial elections approach, residents like Ndlayuvulwa are determined to vote, while others are disillusioned with the political system. Many residents rely on handouts from the Muslim community in Lenasia, highlighting the widespread poverty and unemployment in the area. The government’s response to these challenges has been criticized, with calls for accountability for the police and better support for the community.
Overall, Protea South is a community struggling with poverty, crime, and a lack of trust in the authorities. Residents are looking for solutions to address these issues and improve their quality of life. Ultimately, the hope is for a brighter future where all residents can thrive and feel safe in their own community.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
