Homeless and alone – the story of a homeless man
“I asked for a lift from a number of truck drivers. I arrived here with about R7 in my pocket. I spent that week going from company to company, seeking any job,” said Mr Mabuza.
“People generally think we are a lazy bunch, whose sole purpose in life is to beg and steal. We are also human beings with hearts and dreams. Being homeless is hardly a choice.”
These are the sentiments of Mr Kay Mabuza*, a 36-year-old homeless man who lives and survives on the streets of Yeoville. Originally from Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape, he came to Johannesburg eight years ago with the aim of finding employment.
“The situation back home had gone from bad to worse. My uncle, who was providing for our family of seven, lost his job. It reached a point where I felt helpless,” said Mr Mabuza.
He left his two children behind and came to Johannesburg, without knowing anyone in the city.
“I asked for a lift from a number of truck drivers. I arrived here with about R7 in my pocket. I spent that week going from company to company, seeking any job,” said Mr Mabuza.
He said he still harbours hopes of employment, but a lack of skills and the loss of his identity book have stood in his way.
“I have a thirst for knowledge, but it seems all I’m good for is assisting people to park their cars and washing them. My heart seeks more, though I’m grateful for the little income I get daily,” said Mr Mabuza.
He said life on the street is not good for his health, as he is a diabetic. “I am lucky if I make R40 a day, it depends on the generosity of people. Sometimes you get given food that is not good for you. Beggars cannot be choosers,” said Mr Mabuza.
He said he has to endure the elements on a daily basis. “Sometimes it rains and we battle to find shelter. At times it’s too hot to share a spot with others and at times it becomes a hassle to be in their company because not all of us earn an honest living,” said Mr Mabuza.
He said he has been arrested in the past for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“One is always a suspect in the eyes of the authorities. Maybe it has to do with the indignity of not having a fixed address or the way we look. That is why I try by all means to look like other people on the street. That way, they may have the patience to hear you out,” said Mr Mabuza.
He said given a choice to return home, he still would chose not to go.
“The situation at home has not improved. I would be going back to the very thing I tried to get away from. There is a brotherhood among the homeless, we take care of each other,” said Mr Mabuza.
* Name changed to protect identity.
