English Editorial
Every day, capetonians are asking questions about what the government is doing to
solve the homeless crisis in Cape town. My answer to this question, very little.
The issue of homelessness in Cape Town has many root causes. Most importantly, the
socioeconomic chaos caused by the Covid-19 lockdowns forced an unsettling number
of Capetonians onto the streets.
A large number of drug addicts and those with mental illnesses, as well as thousands of
Capetonians who wanted better access to crime opportunities, migrated into parks,
playgrounds, road reserves, and under bridge flyovers.
Due to the large number of homeless people residing on public property in Cape Town,
it is just not viable, both financially and practically, for the City to provide everyone in
need with a home and a means of support. Unfortunately, the national government has
not shown much interest in assisting in the problem's resolution, whether through the
provision of housing or by the adoption of measures that support the employment and
economic growth that are necessary for individuals to overcome poverty.
Thanks to the amazing work being done by numerous helping non-governmental
organizations in Cape Town, there is still some hope for the citizens of that city. They
are making additional efforts to collaborate with the provincial and federal governments,
which jointly hold the constitutional authority for welfare and shelters for the homeless,
as well as building on relationships with non-governmental organizations that assist in
addressing homelessness.
Finally, I am asking the public to help promote sustainable solutions. We are urging
Capetonians to give to our non-governmental organizations, which are working really
hard to provide individuals with substantial assistance so they are able to leave the
streets.