South African Correspondent
South Africa – A Soweto family’s decades-long struggle for adequate housing has finally come to an end.
Abiel Mophunya, 83, his wife Agnes, 73, and their 29-year-old son Tebogo have moved into a four-roomed house in Lufhereng, Soweto, after living in a former school toilet for 33 years.
“The worst part of our daily lives was when one of us took a bath. Others would have to wait outside in the cold… it was a bit better during summer.” Said Agnes Mophunya beaming with happiness.
The family’s new home is a significant upgrade from their previous living conditions, where they shared an 8×6 meter room divided by a curtain.
“We couldn’t sleep yesterday [Monday]. We packed all night for the department [of human settlements] to find us ready.” Said Baba Abiel Mophunya all excited.
The provincial Department of Human Settlements allocated the new house as a “special dispensation” due to the family’s desperate living conditions.
“We want to thank Sowetan for the job they have done for us. We have been staying in this toilet for 33 years, but they were able to find us help in just [a few] weeks.” Said a thankful Abiel Mophunya
The family’s story highlights the struggles faced by many in South Africa’s townships, where adequate housing remains a significant challenge. The Mophunya family’s new home marks a new beginning and an end to their decades-long struggle for a dignified place to call their own.
Zim GBC News©2024