Wait another week. That is what protesters in Kya Sand burning tyres and blocking off Malibongwe Road were told on Monday – after waiting 12 years for basic services.
When member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for housing Dan Brown, MMC for public safety Matshidiso Mfikoe and MMC for health Nonceba Molwele arrived in the area on Monday and spoke to the crowd, they made no promises, but said they would hold a community meeting next week.
The crowd had waited for hours before the MMCs arrived.
Lack of housing is the main complaint that got Kya Sand residents out of their beds at 5am on Monday to intimidate motorists and blockade Malibongwe Road.
Other issues include no electricity, no transport for schoolchildren, and the lack of a bridge over the river that divides the area. Residents say many have died crossing the river during the rainy season.
“Five years back they promised us everything. Now we are living in shacks, and sewage runs into our homes.
“Until someone (from the government) comes, we have to take violent action. If we take non-violent action, they won’t give us anything,” said protester David Mokwena.
The leadership of the illegal informal settlement agreed, saying they would rather sit down civilly to discuss real solutions, but their hand had been forced by inaction.
“Our government doesn’t listen to you if you come in a peaceful manner,” said community leader Phraim Lifuwa.
Molwele said: “The fact that we came out shows that we are committed to dealing with their issues. We are not looking into a particular area but are looking into all areas.”
Mfikoe said progress in Kya Sand would be part of an integrated programme for about five surrounding areas with similar problems.
The spotlight was also turned on the DA ward councillor, Matome Mafokwane, with residents questioning whether a lack of response from the government was because they had selected a DA councillor. - The Star