Fears rise as new Fourways informal settlement takes root

A new informal settlement is rapidly developing at the slip road off Winnie Mandela and Witkoppen roads, raising concerns among local residents.

Julian Nxumalo, a concerned resident, warns that if left unattended, the situation could spiral out of control, like the Clay Oven Informal settlement.

With shacks already sprouting up, Nxumalo is calling for urgent attention to prevent the emergence of another informal settlement in Fourways.

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This development comes as a disappointment to residents, given the recent efforts by Better Fourways, a local non-profit organisation, to address the issue. Last November, the organisation launched a community fundraising initiative to fence off the corner of Main and Witkoppen roads, aiming to curb the rapid growth of informal structures in the area.

Despite a goal of R200 000, the campaign fell short, raising only R16 073. Nxumalo, who said he was informed about the campaign by councillor David Foley, expressed frustration that the effort did not seem to gain sufficient traction.

“I’m not convinced that this campaign was marketed properly and consistently to the residents,” he said. “Also, surely the surrounding businesses would have a vested interest in this, and should’ve also contributed to this campaign. I don’t know if they were contacted or informed.”

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Nxumalo’s concerns extend beyond the informal settlement, as he notes the proliferation of informal traders along Fourways Boulevard. “This will negatively impact businesses by driving a lot of customers away from shopping in those surrounding areas.”

When asked about the fate of the fundraising campaign, Raffaella Carnicelli, chairperson of Better Fourways, became defensive and dismissive. Despite being given opportunities to respond to queries for an update about what is next, Carnicelli failed to provide the requested information, instead curtly ending the conversation.

But the problem also lies with the authorities, of which Nxumalo says they need to work together to do something about it.

Sphiwe Ntuli, spokesperson for the informal settlers, said they need assistance in getting better housing. “We stay here because we don’t have places to go and are looking for jobs here in Fourways. We are not going to move without proper assistance for accommodation from the city. Staying here keeps us close to many places where we can try to work for money.”

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Superintendent Xolani Fihla, the spokesperson of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department, did not respond to these questions, despite a number of follow ups.

• What is JMPD’s current strategy for managing and preventing the growth of informal settlements in the Fourways area, particularly on the corner of Witkoppen and Main roads?
• Has JMPD received any complaints or reports regarding the informal settlements in the area, and if so, what actions have been taken to address these concerns?
• Are there any plans for collaboration between JMPD, local NPOs, and residents to find a solution to the issue of informal settlements and improve the overall safety and infrastructure of the area?

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