Uni Blog

Khayelitsha (Xhosa for “new home”), Cape Town’s largest township, where you will meet real people and hear real stories.

South Africa’s townships – alive with possibilities

15 June 2010
By: Jess Wheeler

Townships are densely populated areas that were created during the Apartheid years when many people were forced to relocate from their homes into these designated areas and five percent of South Africa’s population still lives in these shanties built from scrap metal.

These townships are generally plagued by high crime and unemployment rates.

Having said that, townships are also melting pots for hope and change where a new middle class has been born, an entrepreneurial spirit has blossomed and a strong community pride has emerged. In these colourful streets, the word “Ubuntu” (humanity) has taken on new meaning.

You have the opportunity to get street-smart and visit Khayelitsha (Xhosa for “new home”), Cape Town’s largest township, where you will meet real people and hear real stories.

After enjoying a local traditional township lunch at one of the local restaurants, you will visit the headquarters of “Learn to Earn”, an innovative program that provides training to unemployed people so that they acquire skills – from beadwork to basic business skills, eventually helping them to become self-supportive.

Next, you will visit the small home of a foster mother who cares for 14 orphans. Be inspired by her story and get a glimpse into some of the harsh realities of African township life.

You will end the day at a community centre where much of township life is centred. Enjoy a chat with some of the centres’ elderly residents, as well as children who take part in the centres’ learning programmes.

To view video footage of a heart-warming Khayelitsha township experience, please watch the below clip.