Mfuleni at 50: A historic milestone marked by hope and frustration.

Pride and pain mingled on Saturday, January 31, as Mfuleni residents gathered at Manzomthombo Primary School sports field to mark 50 years since the township's establishment.

While the historic milestone brought celebration, it also laid bare a harsh reality that 31 years into democracy, Mfuleni still lacks basic services such as reliable electricity, water, sanitation, proper housing, and, most critically, safety.

During the celebrations, several residents admitted that they have yet to experience the promised “fruits of freedom”, with many saying they have only heard about a better life for all, but have not lived it. The government was criticised for failing to ensure that the people of Mfuleni fully enjoy the democracy secured by the sacrifices of past heroes and heroines.

Seventy-six-year-old veteran resident Nyathikazi Mnyimba shared a reflective account of Mfuleni’s history, describing it as a story of both joy and sorrow. She explained that Mfuleni was among the last areas created under apartheid’s Group Areas Act, with people forcibly relocated from places such as Gordon’s Bay, Simon’s Town, and Firgrove.

“We were a mixture of coloureds and black Africans,” she said.

Ms Mnyimba recalled that the population was once small, with about 130 houses serving roughly 160 people.

“There was no development, but there was order,” she said.

“In the old locations, there were councillors, though they had no power. Today, it is shocking to see the lack of development and the absence of order. Still, we had good times back then.”

Addressing the gathering, Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis reassured residents by promising what he described as “a river of investment” in Mfuleni.

He committed to housing development in informal settlements such as Extension 1, Bosasa, and Shukushukuma, among others.

“It is wonderful to be here to celebrate this historic moment,” Mr Hill-Lewis said.

“Mfuleni means ‘a river’, and we are proud to announce that a river of investment is coming to this community. We will invest in sports and recreation, and we understand that crime is a major concern. The City has provided a municipal building for SAPS in Mfuleni, and if they want to build a police station, we will provide land free of charge. You are important to the City of Cape Town, and we will work to improve the lives of the people of Mfuleni.”

His remarks were met with applause and ululation from the crowd.

Local councillor Mongezi Madikane also described the day as a significant and emotional moment, noting that such an important milestone could not be confined to a single day. He suggested that celebrations should continue throughout the year.

“This is special. Today marks the beginning,” he said.

“We need to write the story of Mfuleni. As we celebrate, we honour the veterans, heroes, and heroines of our community. Before coming here, we took the mayor on a walkabout, so he could see firsthand the challenges our people face. We want those challenges addressed.”

Despite the concerns raised, the township hosted a vibrant and successful celebration, showcasing local talent through music and dance. Performers included Marveriq Mavo, Mphathiwohlelo, Mtaki, Babomncane, and DJ Jobss, among others, bringing colour, rhythm, and pride to a historic day for Mfuleni.

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