There is an expression in Africa, TIA; This Is Africa. Simply put, it’s a catch-all phrase for explaining the unexplainable. When things just don’t make sense, the response is often “This is Africa”. Used by foreigners and locals alike, last week was a TIA Week.
I’m in South Africa on business. My travels have recently brought me to a few townships in Mpumalanga Province: Secunda and Sibuyswa.
What is a Township?
A township is the term used to describe the tin shack cities. They are sometimes also referred to as Informal Settlements. Both are used in place of Squatter’s Camps, which has a negative connotation. Townships are a frequent sight in South Africa. They are eye opening for the first-time visitor.
A Typical Living Arrangement
Homes have one or two rooms. They usually don’t have proper toilet facilities. Outhouses in the backyard are the only option. Water out of the tap is also uncommon. Community Taps, outdoor faucets in the center of the townships, are where residents get their drinking, bathing and cooking water.
If you’re one of the fortunate few to live in a government house, you might have one or both of the above. Conditions are poor compared to US standards.
Work brought me to one of these townships. Our venue was a proper building made of bricks, but there was no running water in the restrooms. No soap or toilet paper either.
Common Sights
On the way to the venue we drove past cows, goats and donkeys in the middle of the road. Yes, some parts of animals random animals wandering around – but it’s not the norm.
I was propositioned to donate money to a youth center, visit a farm where plants are grown to cure HIV (cultivated by traditional healers and probably not the least effective), and give a ride to 6 people who didn’t want to walk the long road home. All of which I declined for various reasons. It can quickly become overwhelming and sad.
A trip to a township is a necessary stop when you go to South Africa. You’ll instantly reflect on what’s important, appreciate what you have and question how world leaders can let their people live under these conditions. You’ll want to help. But where do you start? I’m still pondering that.
Only visit townships under the guidance of an expert. These are some of the most poverty-stricken locations in all of the country. And while poverty doesn’t mean crime, townships are often places where frequent criminal activity can occur. Certain townships provide tours for tourists that are generally safer than others. Do your research before visiting a township, but do visit one when you are in South Africa.
Hope
Humankind are resilient people. You’ll marvel at how alike we all are. Whether you live in a mansion or a tin shack, parents want the best for their kids, kids use their imaginations to play and neighbors work together to strengthen their community bonds.
When you think of Africa, the images I described above are probably what come to mind. There’s no doubt about it, This Is Africa, but it’s not the only thing. Much of South Africa has first-world infrastructure and technology. Most of where I’ve been, and where most tourists would go would resemble their own cities and towns in their own countries.
But today I wanted to share with you a part of the country that makes Africa Africa.
There’s so much hope for South Africa, but it will take time…and money.
This Is Africa
I’ll see you out there…!
Have you ever been to a Township? What was your experience like? Share by commenting below.
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