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100 Townships
1: Soweto 1 895 921 #KasiBCAfrica 100 Townships Soweto: A Brief Introduction to South Africa's Most Vibrant Township Soweto, a township of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng, South Africa, has a rich history and cultural significance. Its name is an English syllabic abbreviation for South Western Townships. Soweto was originally established in the 1930s as a temporary settlement for black workers who were employed in Johannesburg's gold mines. Over the years, it grew into one of the largest black urban complexes in the country. Soweto is known for its role in the fight against apartheid. The township was the site of the Soweto Uprising in 1976, a series of protests led by black students against the apartheid government's decision to impose Afrikaans as the language of instruction in schools. The protests were met with violence from the police, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people. Today, Soweto is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich cultural heritage. Key Takeaways Soweto is a township of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng, South Africa, with a rich history and cultural significance. Soweto played a significant role in the fight against apartheid, particularly during the Soweto Uprising in 1976. Today, Soweto is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich cultural heritage, and is home to a number of landmarks and tourist attractions. History of Soweto Soweto is a township located in the city of Johannesburg, South Africa. The name Soweto is derived from the first two letters of "South Western Township." It was established in the 1930s as a segregated area for black residents who were forcibly removed from other areas of Johannesburg. During the apartheid era, Soweto became a symbol of resistance against the oppressive government policies. In 1976, Soweto was the site of a massive uprising known as the Soweto Rebellion. The protest began as a response to the government's insistence that the Afrikaans language be used as the medium of instruction in Soweto's high schools. The uprising resulted in years of violence and repression, and it is estimated that hundreds of people were killed. Despite the challenges faced by the residents of Soweto, the township has a rich cultural and political history. It is home to numerous iconic landmarks, including the Hector Pieterson Museum, which commemorates the young boy who was killed during the Soweto Uprising. Soweto is also known for its vibrant music scene, with genres like Kwaito and House music originating from the township. In recent years, Soweto has undergone significant development, with improvements in infrastructure and housing. However, poverty and unemployment remain major issues in the township, and many residents continue to struggle to access basic services like electricity and clean water. Geography and Demographics Soweto is a township located in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng, South Africa. It is situated on the southwestern border of Johannesburg's mining belt. The name Soweto is an English syllabic abbreviation for South Western Townships. The township covers an area of approximately 200 square kilometers and is home to a diverse population of over 1.2 million people. Soweto is characterized by its unique topography, which includes rolling hills, open fields, and densely populated urban areas. The township is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and history. The most well-known of these neighborhoods include Orlando, Meadowlands, Dobsonville, and Diepkloof. Soweto's demographics are diverse, with a majority of the population being black Africans. Women make up the majority of the population, accounting for approximately 57% of the total population. More than 45% of the population of Soweto is below the age of 25. The population is also highly mobile, with many people moving in and out of the township for work or other reasons. #MakeAfricaGreat
2: Tembisa 463,109 #KasiBCAfrica 100 Townships Tembisa: A Vibrant Township in South Africa Tembisa is a large township located in the Gauteng province of South Africa. It was established in 1957 when black people were resettled from Alexandra and other areas in Edenvale, Kempton Park, Midrand, and Germiston. The name Tembisa comes from the Zulu word "thembisa," which means "to promise" or "give hope." The black residents who were evicted from other areas in Johannesburg saw the area as a place that would give hope. Today, Tembisa is one of the largest townships in the country, with a population exceeding one million people. Despite its humble beginnings, Tembisa has emerged as a vibrant and thriving township teeming with rich history and cultural significance. It is home to a diverse community of people from different ethnic backgrounds, and it boasts a unique blend of traditional and modern cultures. Key Takeaways Tembisa is a large township located in the Gauteng province of South Africa that was established in 1957 when black people were resettled from other areas in Johannesburg. Today, Tembisa is one of the largest townships in the country, with a population exceeding one million people. Tembisa is a vibrant and thriving township teeming with rich history and cultural significance, and it is home to a diverse community of people from different ethnic backgrounds. History of Tembisa Early Settlement Tembisa is a large township located in the East Rand of Gauteng, South Africa. The name "Tembisa" comes from the Xhosa word meaning "promise" or "hope". It was established in 1957 when black South Africans were resettled from Alexandra and other areas in Edenvale, Kempton Park, Midrand, and Germiston [[1]]. The land where Tembisa is located was originally owned by Mr. J.H.M. Meyer and Mrs. M.W.Z. van Wyk. After negotiations between the purchasing committee and the owners, the land was purchased at R3,52 per hectare with funding from the National Housing Commission and government loans [[3]]. The township was designed as a model township, with modern facilities and infrastructure. The establishment of Tembisa was overseen by a four-man committee appointed by the government [[4]]. Post-Apartheid Era During the apartheid era, Tembisa was one of the largest black townships in South Africa. It was characterized by overcrowding, poor infrastructure, and limited access to basic services such as water and electricity [[2]]. After the end of apartheid in 1994, the South African government initiated a program to improve living conditions in townships such as Tembisa. This program included the provision of basic services such as water and electricity, the construction of new housing, and the upgrading of existing housing [[1]]. Today, Tembisa is a thriving township with a population of over 500,000 people. It is home to a number of businesses, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The township has also produced a number of successful musicians, actors, and sports stars [[1]]. #MakeAfricaGreat
3: Katlehong 407,294 #KasiBCAfrica 1oo TownshipsKathelong: Exploring the History and Culture of a Vibrant City Katlehong is a township located in the Gauteng province of South Africa. It is situated in the eastern part of Johannesburg and is one of the largest townships in the country. The township has a rich history and a vibrant culture that is reflected in its people, music, and art. Kathelong: An Overview Katlehong is a bustling township that is home to over 400,000 people. The township has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its vibrant music scene, with many well-known musicians and actors hailing from the area. Soccer is the most popular sport in the township, and it is the birthplace of some of the country's professional soccer players. Historical Background of Kathelong Katlehong was originally established in the 1940s as a settlement for black South Africans who were forcibly removed from other areas. The township grew rapidly in the years that followed, and by the 1970s, it was one of the largest townships in the country. Despite the challenges faced by the residents of Katlehong, the township has a rich history of resistance and resilience, and its people have played an important role in the struggle against apartheid. Key Takeaways Katlehong is a large township located in the Gauteng province of South Africa, known for its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage. The township has a history of resistance and resilience, and its people have played an important role in the struggle against apartheid. Despite the challenges faced by the residents of Katlehong, the township has a bright future and is home to many opportunities for growth and development. Kathelong: An Overview Katlehong is a large township located in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. It is situated 28 km southeast of Johannesburg and south of Germiston, between two other townships of Thokoza and Vosloorus next to the N3 highway. It forms part of the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. The township has a rich history and was established in 1945 as a result of the forced removals of black people from other areas of Gauteng. It was initially established as a temporary settlement for mine workers, but it grew rapidly and became a permanent residential area. Today, it is one of the largest townships in South Africa, with a population of over 400,000 people. Katlehong has a vibrant culture and is known for its music and dance. The township has produced several famous musicians and dancers, including the late Brenda Fassie, who was a popular South African pop singer. The vibrant culture of the township is reflected in the annual Katlehong Arts Festival, which showcases the best of local music, dance, and art. Despite its vibrant culture, Katlehong is also known for its poverty and high crime rates. The township has a high unemployment rate, and many residents struggle to make ends meet. Crime is also a major problem in the area, with high rates of theft, assault, and murder. Overall, Katlehong is a township with a rich history and vibrant culture, but it also faces significant challenges in terms of poverty and crime.
4: Umlazi 404,811 #MakeAfricaGreat 100 Township Umlazi: A Vibrant Township in Durban Umlazi is a township located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. It is situated southwest of Durban and is the fourth largest township in the country. Umlazi is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse community. The name Umlazi is derived from the Mlazi River, which runs through the township. The river's name comes from the Zulu word for "curdled milk," referring to its color and flavor. The township was established on the southern bank of the river, and it has grown to become a bustling community with a population of over 400,000 people. Umlazi is a unique place with a lot to offer, from its beautiful landscapes and rich history to its bustling economy and diverse population. In this article, we will explore the history, geography, demographics, economy, and education in Umlazi. Key Takeaways Umlazi is the fourth largest township in South Africa, located in the KwaZulu-Natal province. The township is named after the Mlazi River, which runs through it. Umlazi has a rich history, diverse population, and a bustling economy. History of Umlazi Umlazi is a township located in the south of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The history of Umlazi dates back to the mid-19th century when British settlers forcibly occupied the Natal region and created a number of 'Native locations' for the Zulus. Umlazi was one of these locations, established in 1845 as a mission station by Reverend James Allison. Early Years During the early years of Umlazi, the area was mainly used for agriculture, with the residents cultivating crops such as maize and beans. In the early 1900s, the area became more urbanized as more people moved to the area to work in the nearby industrial areas. During this time, the government also began to provide basic services such as water and electricity to the area. Modern Era Umlazi was officially opened to black residents in 1965 and acquired town status in 1973. In the early 21st century, Umlazi became part of the eThekwini Municipal Area. Umlazi is the only township in South Africa that has its own registration plate, which is NUZ. Today, Umlazi is a bustling township with a population of over 400,000 people. The area has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its vibrant music scene, with many famous musicians hailing from the area. The township also has a number of schools, clinics, and community centers, providing essential services to the residents. Despite the challenges faced by the area, Umlazi remains a vibrant and dynamic community, with a strong sense of pride and identity. Geography Location Umlazi is a township located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, situated on undulated land at an average elevation of 101m above sea level. It is bounded by the uMlaza River to the north and the uMbokodweni River to the south. The Siphingo River is a smaller river which also flows through the southern part of the township. Umlazi is located southwest of Durban and is part of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and its South Municipal Planning Region. It is the fourth largest township in South Africa, after Soweto, Tembisa, and Katlehong. Climate Umlazi has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The township experiences rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being December and January. The average annual temperature is around 20°C, with January being the warmest month and July being the coolest. The prevailing winds in Umlazi are from the southeast, and the township is occasionally affected by tropical cyclones during the summer months. Umlazi's climate is influenced by its proximity to the Indian Ocean, which moderates the temperature and provides moisture for rainfall. #MakeAfricaGreat
5: Soshanguve 403,162 #KasiBCAfrica 100 Townships Soshanguve: A Comprehensive Guide to the Township Soshanguve is a township located in the north of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. The name Soshanguve is an acronym for Sotho, Shangaan, Nguni, and Venda, which reflects the multi-ethnic composition of the population. The major African languages of South Africa are spoken in Soshanguve. The township is situated just east of Mabopane and is approximately 30 km north of Pretoria. Soshanguve has a rich history that dates back to the 1970s when it was established as a residential area for black people under the apartheid regime. The township was created to provide housing for black people who were forcibly removed from other areas. Today, Soshanguve is a bustling township with a diverse population and a vibrant culture. Despite its humble beginnings, Soshanguve has grown to become a thriving community with a strong economy and a rich cultural heritage. The township is home to numerous schools, colleges, and universities, making it a hub of education in the region. Additionally, Soshanguve has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Key Takeaways Soshanguve is a multi-ethnic township located in the north of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. The township has a rich history dating back to the 1970s when it was established as a residential area for black people under the apartheid regime. Today, Soshanguve is a thriving community with a strong economy, a rich cultural heritage, and a hub of education in the region. History of Soshanguve Soshanguve is a township located about 30 km north of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. It was established in 1974, during the apartheid era, as a resettlement area for Black South Africans who were forcibly removed from Mamelodi and Atteridgeville. The name "Soshanguve" is an acronym for the four major ethnic groups that make up the population: Sotho, Shangaan, Nguni, and Venda. Early Beginnings Soshanguve was originally known as Mabopane East, and was renamed Soshanguve in 1977 when its counterpart, Mabopane West, was renamed Mabopane and incorporated into the then newly established bantustan of Bophuthatswana. During the apartheid era, Soshanguve was divided into different sections based on the ethnicity of its residents. This was done to make administration easier for the apartheid government, but it left a community divided and suspicious of each other. Recent Developments In recent years, Soshanguve has undergone significant development. The township has seen improvements in infrastructure, including the construction of new roads and the expansion of public transportation services. There has also been an increase in the number of schools, clinics, and other public facilities. Despite these improvements, however, Soshanguve still faces many challenges. Unemployment remains high, and many residents struggle to make ends meet. Crime is also a major concern, with high rates of theft, robbery, and other crimes reported in the area. Overall, Soshanguve has a rich and complex history, shaped by the legacy of apartheid and the ongoing struggles of its residents. Despite the challenges it faces, the township continues to be a vibrant and dynamic community, with a strong sense of identity and a bright future ahead. #MakeAfricaGreat
6: Khayelitsha 391,749 #KasiBCAfrica 100 Townships ... Khayelitsha: A Vibrant Township in Cape Town Khayelitsha is a township located in the Western Cape of South Africa. It is one of the largest and fastest-growing townships in the country, with a population of over 400,000 people. The name Khayelitsha means "new home" in Xhosa, one of the official languages of South Africa. The township was established in 1983 as a result of the apartheid government's policy of forced removals. Black residents living in informal settlements on the Cape Peninsula were relocated to Khayelitsha, which was purpose-built to accommodate them. Despite its difficult history, Khayelitsha is a vibrant community with a rich culture and history. Key Takeaways Khayelitsha is a large and fast-growing township in the Western Cape of South Africa with a population of over 400,000 people. The township was established in 1983 as a result of the apartheid government's policy of forced removals. Despite its difficult history, Khayelitsha is a vibrant community with a rich culture and history. Geography of Khayelitsha Khayelitsha is a township located in the Western Cape of South Africa. It is situated on the Cape Flats in the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality. The township is approximately 19km east of Wynberg and 25km south-east of Cape Town. Khayelitsha covers an area of approximately 47 square kilometers, making it one of the largest townships in South Africa. It is home to an estimated population of over 400,000 people, with the majority of residents being Xhosa-speaking black Africans. The township is divided into informal settlements, formal housing areas, and commercial and industrial zones. The informal settlements are often overcrowded and lack basic amenities such as electricity, running water, and sanitation. The formal housing areas, on the other hand, have basic amenities and are relatively better off. Khayelitsha is bordered by several other townships, including Mitchells Plain, Philippi, and Nyanga. It is also close to False Bay, which is a popular tourist destination in the Western Cape. In terms of climate, Khayelitsha experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average temperature in the township ranges from 15°C in winter to 27°C in summer. The area receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 515mm. Overall, Khayelitsha's geography is characterized by its vast size, diverse population, and proximity to other townships and tourist destinations in the Western Cape. History of Khayelitsha Khayelitsha is a township located in Cape Town, South Africa. It was established in the 1980s during the apartheid era as a result of forced removals of black residents from other areas. The name "Khayelitsha" means "new home" in Xhosa, one of the official languages of South Africa. Before the establishment of Khayelitsha, black residents were forced to live in segregated areas known as "townships." The Group Areas Act of 1950 formalized this segregation, designating certain areas for specific racial groups. As a result, black residents were forcibly removed from their homes in other areas and relocated to Khayelitsha. Initially, Khayelitsha was established as a temporary settlement, with residents living in makeshift shacks. However, as more people were forcibly relocated to the area, the settlement grew and became more permanent. Today, Khayelitsha is one of the largest townships in South Africa, with a population of over 400,000 people. Despite its difficult history, Khayelitsha has a vibrant culture and community. The township has produced many notable artists, musicians, and activists. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve living conditions in the area, including the construction of new housing and community facilities. However, poverty, unemployment, and crime remain significant challenges for residents of Khayelitsha. #MakeAfricaGreat
7: Mamelodi 334,577
8: Mitchell's Plain 310,485
9: Ibhayi 237,799
10: Sebokeng 218,515
11: Mangaung 217,076
12: Philippi 200,603
13: Ivory Park 184,383
14: Botshabelo 181,712
15: Thaba Nchu 179,624
16: Phoenix 176,989
17: Kwa-Mashu 175,663
18: Vosloorus 163,216
19: Mdantsane 154,576
20: Delft 152,030
21: Motherwell 140,351
22: Eldorado Park 75,303
23: Tsakane 135,994
24: Thabong 135,613
25: Evaton 132,851
26: Ntuzuma 125,394
27: Madadeni 119,497
28: Embalenhle 118,889
29: Kagiso 115,802
30: Mabopane 110,972
31: Galeshewe 107,920
32: Kwa Nobuhle 107,407
33: Saulsville 105,208
34: Jouberton 104,977
35: Thokoza 105,827
36: Kwa Thema 99,517
37: Guguletu 98,468
38: Diepsloot 95,067
39: Ga-Rankuwa 90,945
40: Seshego 83,863
41: Edendale 79,573
42: Osizweni 77,845
43: Orange Farm 76,767
44: Hlubi 73,931
45: Duduza 73,295
46: Mfuleni 52,274
47: Pine Town 62,406
48: Matsulu 47,306
49: Thembalethu 43,103
50: Mahwelereng 41,072
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