Church rallies community to bridge N2 divide and rebuild [Watch]

A week after protests turned to riots on the North Coast, two once disparate communities came together as neighbours.

Residents from across the North Coast arrived in Shaka’s Head and Shayamoya on Sunday to help clean up the community as part of an ongoing commitment by Linc Church to bridge the N2 divide.

With the help of municipal workers, volunteers, taxi drivers and residents the townships were cleared of rubbish and debris.

“We really want to be clear to these outlying communities on the North Coast that we regard them as our neighbours. Helping to clean up after a disaster is what neighbours do,” said pastor, Dylan Jahnig.

More than 100 cars arrived, cramming onto the soccer field in Shaka’s Head.

What spilled out of the cars were not armed men and security officers, but families and children.

“It’s been one of those weeks that we will never forget as long as we live. There’s been devastation, but there’s also this beautiful coming together of many people groups, on many fronts.”

New friendships were made and the hope is that a lasting bond will develop between residents, said Jahnig.

“We want to go big here and help this community to get back on their feet. Beyond the clean up, we are also putting plans in place to build a new entry sign and to have consistent relationships with the Shaka’s Head residents.”

Music and prayer rang out in both communities as residents allowed themselves to relax in each other’s company for the first time following a tumultuous week.

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