Originally published on 4 August 2022
In the Gugulethu township of Cape Town, small community projects are showing how local action can make a big difference. These "pockets of promise" challenge usual ideas about development and provide creative solutions to meet the needs of the township.
What was the problem?
Gugulethu, like many townships in South Africa, has serious problems like overcrowding, not enough resources and lack of land. There are also not enough public spaces and community facilities, which makes it hard for people to connect and find opportunities.
How did they fix it?
Instead of waiting for big development projects, architects and community groups are focusing on smaller projects. These efforts involve the community, use sustainable design and create spaces that meet the needs of Gugulethu residents.
So, how did they do it?
A shipping container becomes a community hub: An unused space next to the local library has been turned into a multi-purpose venue by Design Indaba. They built a low-cost structure using shipping container panels.
A community restaurant and jazz lounge supports local talent: This project reused old buildings and materials to create a friendly space for people to gather and enjoy live music.
The Langa Quarter project improves existing buildings: This project helps preserve and enhance the cultural history of Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township. It now serves as a starting point for an art and heritage route.
Community gardens help with food security: Urban farming projects allow residents to grow their own food, promote healthy eating and green their surroundings. These gardens also teach young people about sustainable farming and caring for the environment.
Micro-financing and skills training create building opportunities: A network of small loans and training programs helps residents start businesses, build homes and support the local economy. This makes the community stronger and more self-sufficient.
Acknowledgements
Author: Kathryn Ewing
Original article: Pockets of promise in Gugulethu
Photograph: Kathryn Ewing
Get your community involved
Is there a community-driven group or caring business in your area? A dedicated group of committed people can effectively solve local problems.
Think about starting or joining community groups like a street WhatsApp group, residents' association, or community policing forum (CPF) to get help and to stay informed and involved in local issues.
Know your rights – how local government works
It’s important to understand how your local government works so that you can work with them to support what they are doing while your community continues to keep them accountable and deliver services on time. Remember you have a constitutional right to many of the services provided by local government, as well as to accountability and transparency, wherever you live and regardless of how much you earn. It is also where money collected from taxes and rates goes.
Tshwane
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