Resident march on Kya Sands Business Park demanding employment
Job seekers moved from company to company in Kya Sands Business Park this week, demanding local firms hire residents instead of foreign nationals, and vowing to return until everyone is employed.
Business parks along Bernie Street in Kya Sand became the scene of a tense stand-off this week, as groups of job seekers moved from one company to the next, demanding to be hired ahead of foreign nationals.
The Gauteng provincial joint operations centre (JOC) confirmed on July 24, that the crowds gathering in the area were looking for work. In a public advisory, the JOC said security companies were keeping an eye on the situation and that police had been informed.
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So far, there have been no verified reports of any criminal activity connected to the gatherings, and the public has been asked to only pass on information that has actually been confirmed.
Jacob Shika, who led the March and March campaign in Kya Sand, explained why the group had taken to the business parks.
“We are to ask for jobs because there are too many illegal immigrants here. The firms and warehouses closed their gates and refuse to let them in.”
He made it clear the group had no plans to back down, saying they would be out again soon. “Next week Monday they should come gather again and try again. Illegal immigrants should get out, and our people should be allowed to work.”
Among those marching was resident Trevor Makhura, who said the turnout on the day spoke for itself.
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“We need jobs. We are here today because we are looking for jobs. There are a lot of illegal immigrants that have taken our jobs. We want opportunities so that we can provide for our families.
“As you can see, the large number of people here, everyone here is desperate for a job.”
The day wrapped up with a brief meeting among the marchers, where organisers confirmed plans to return on July 27. They said they intended to keep marching until everyone is employed.
The Randburg Sun was not able to independently confirm the claims made by marchers about the immigration status of workers at the businesses in question.
Residents are reminded to only share verified information, in keeping with the advisory issued by the Gauteng provincial JOC.
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