Informal settlement on N11 road, a home to approximately 400 people

Situated on the N11, just outside of Newcastle, lives a small community of people. A group of people many would consider squatters.

“Personally, I have been living here for the past 11 years. But, there are people who have been living here since 1974,” claims one resident, Jabulani Ngcobo.

 

Named Wykom Farm, Jabulani claims there are approximately 400 people living on the small piece of land. “People moved here from across the railway lines. They used to live near the farms but were told to move. They didn’t want trouble, so everyone came here.”

While living a somewhat secluded life, Jabulani says it isn’t as easy as some imagine. “We face many challenges, but I reckon the biggest is that we don’t have electricity or running water.”

Also read: Squatters movie into Erica Drive, looking for a nice place to live

At present, Jabulani says the municipality does supply a certain amount of water to the residents. “But, we would like to have title deeds to the land where we are living. As well as running water and electricity.”

While hoping to have ownership of the land and becoming a recognised community, instead of a rural homestead, Jabulani says Wykom residents make do with what they have.

 

“It is safe here. But that’s because we look out for each other. We are family and friends. Our problem is when outsiders try and come and cause trouble.”

Yet, troublemakers leave when they see their dastardly deeds are not appreciated. As the close-knit community live on the outskirts of town, what are your thoughts? Do you feel these people should be given running water and electricity? Being a part of the Newcastle community for so many years, do they deserve the same rights as residential home owners?

Also read: How do the homeless benefit from our waster? We chatted to Jabulani