Communities unite after KZN unrest
The Outer West Business and Community Initiative was formed after the loss and disruption caused by the looting in the province.
MASS looting, violence, and destruction at multiple businesses and retail sectors in KwaZulu-Natal sparked something special in the Outer West parts of eThekwini.
The immediate threat to businesses, livelihoods and surrounding residential areas caused communities to come together in defence.
As the dust settled and as clean up initiatives got under way, so did conversations about the deeper causes of the socio-economic instability that various areas of the community found themselves in.
Through these conversations came the formation of the Outer West Business and Community Initiative.
ALSO READ: WATCH: The famous blue couch recovered after KZN unrest
Caitlyn de Beer said the loss and disruption affected everyone, even those in the areas from which the unrest had emanated.
The first meeting was held under a tree in the KwaNyuswa Valley with a group which would have been described as unusual previously.
The group comprised of business leaders, security company representatives, taxi association representatives and community elders who engaged in a conversation about the longevity of what they wished to build together.
“The Outer West business and community initiative strives for social cohesion and to provide a platform where everyone’s voice is heard. Registered as a not-for-profit company (NPC), this initiative has already taken some remarkable strides towards positive change within its community and is gaining momentum.
ALSO READ: Pinetown supermarket reopens after looting
“Engagement between SAPS, Metro Police, community safety companies, Community Policing Forum (CPF), neighbourhood watches, the taxi association, and other community and business representatives is serving to create a new security support structure.
According to de Beer, the old CPF structure has been revived through these discussions, and support has been given to SAPS to mobilise 14 of their previously unroadworthy vehicles.
“Approximately 20 tonnes of fresh and dried food have been distributed through three separate organised events to the broader community, feeding close to 4000 people over a two-week period. Further distributions are planned while food security remains an issue.
ALSO READ: Local looting shakes Valley Trust The NPC’s short term action goal includes identifying and filling the immediate food relief needs of those who have been affected.
“We also want to partner with local non-profit organisations to effectively target community requirements and engage with eThekwini council for access to council services.
The long term action for the group is to bring together all stakeholders invested in securing the Upper Highway CBDs, residential suburbs and surrounding areas to create long-term stability.
When asked about the aim of the initiative, de Beer said, “To engage the Outer West business so that they may better understand the existing barriers to economic development within the surrounding communities, allowing them to identify opportunities to facilitate and support economic development within the Valley.”
People who would like to be a part of this initiative can join their Facebook group – Outer West Business & Community Initiative.
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