Mabuya was a legend to the people
Harry Mabuya was born in Bergville, Natal in 1906.
As a youngster of 12, he came to Benoni with his parents.
He later began his career as a businessman by opening a hairdresser and shop, followed by an undertaker’s business, a restaurant and his own bus service.
In 1945 he achieved prominence by forming his “African Housing and Rates Board”, the reputed object of which was to find housing for families living under shocking conditions.
Mabuya persuaded people to leave the slums and encouraged them to set up tents and shacks on a piece of vacant ground on council property west of the location (present day Wattville).
He bought tents for families in need from war disposal stores and ran the “Tent Town” on a businesslike basis.
Mabuya was influential and he later served on the Advisory Board of the Emergency Squatters Camp, which was established in 1945 by the council.
Once a figure of almost legendary proportions, he is still remembered with respect and affection.
His name is perpetuated in one of the Wattville streets.
Information supplied by Glynis Cox Millett-Clay.
Also read:
Glynnwood’s history won’t be forgotten
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