By Charmaine Nkosi
SOME day, AbahlalibaseMjondolo will have everything they pray for.
Don’t expect it to happen tomorrow, though. On Sunday the community hosted a General Assembly at the YMCA Hall in Durban, to address critical issues such as housing, unemployment, poverty, and more.
The assembly served as a vital platform for members to share their experiences, voice their concerns, and discuss actionable solutions, underscoring the movement’s commitment to advocating for improved living conditions and social justice.
Fikiswa Zungu, a member of AbahlalibaseMjondolo, highlighted the dire situation following heavy rainfall two months ago that swept away homes and claimed lives.
“I lost my house, and I had to build a shack while waiting for the government to do something about the situation. Nothing has been done to this day,” said Zungu.
Another member shared his ordeal of having his land illegally sold, forcing him to leave his home. Londeka Xulu, also a member, spoke about her struggles after being retrenched.
“I wish the government would try to assist us as AbahlalibaseMjondolo because even the grant money for our children is not enough to help us get through the month,” said Xulu.
Sibusiso Zikode, the president of AbahlalibaseMjondolo, addressed the assembly, urging members to continue working together to fight for their rights and hold those in power accountable.
“We are a movement that fights for the rights of our people; we are not a political movement. Our country should be practising socialism, where all people benefit from the land, and not just the rich,” Zikode stated.
He emphasized the inequality in land ownership in South Africa, noting that while most of the population is black, only 14% of the land is owned by black people, whereas white people own 80%. Zikode urged members not to sell their land but to keep it for future generations.
The assembly concluded with a renewed sense of solidarity and determination among the members to continue advocating for their rights and improving their living conditions.
All pictures by Charmaine Nkosi
