Rays of Hope urges for support for Alex

The cries of Alexandrians which were expressed through the recent #AlexShutDown protests forced a reaction from the powers that be to engage the community.

This is according to a statement by Sihle Mooi, chief executive officer of Rays of Hope, in reference to concerns about the underdevelopment and sub-human living conditions that have long fallen on deaf ears.

“This in a township which is home to thousands of people from all walks of life and an epicenter of Johannesburg for everyone from locals to immigrants from the furthest ends of Africa. It has the potential to be its own ‘City of Gold’, yet it is often referred to as ‘The Dark City’ because of the many challenges its residents face daily,” Mooi’s statement read.

“From poor service delivery to a lack of housing and sanitation, the people of Alex have faced tough times for many years. Their frustrations are understandable and culminated in the protests which impacted nearby Sandton. The current calm after that storm could flare up as their existing conditions have not changed.”

The organisation is part of a working committee of stakeholders discussing and contributing their bit to improve the township’s conditions, which are now the subject of an inquiry by the South African Human Rights Commission and the Public Protector, specifically the missing billions that were set aside for renewal projects.

“We have distanced ourselves from the politics of it but mobilised members of the community and South Africa at large to voice their opinions on the issues and their solutions with clarity and a unified voice.”

The organisation pledged to continue doing the long-term work of developing children and families with the tools they need to contribute to the community’s problems.

“We call on our fellow citizens to support them through volunteering on the ground or making donations to help alleviate their plight.”

Details: Rays of Hope 011 784 6214

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