7 August 2024
Press Release: For Immediate Release
NDIFUNA UKWAZI CALLS ON THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN TO RETRACT LETTERS OF INTENTION TO SELL THE LONG-STANDING FAMILY HOME OF A WORKING CLASS FAMILY IN ATHLONE
Mrs Jamielah Levy’s family has been living in Tancred Street, Athlone for the past 70 years. On 15 May 2024, the family received a notice from the City of Cape Town (City), informing them that their tenancy and lease might be terminated due to the City’s intention to sell the properties.
Levy, 72, has lived in the house for her entire life. This is a home she shares with 19 members of her family, including 8 minor children and family members with chronic illness and disabilities.
“This is seriously very sad and heartbreaking, leaving us as a family with crying sleepless nights. We don’t know if we are coming or going, think for yourself, with all due respect, if the only roof you ever knew will be taken away from you like it’s nothing,” said Mrs Levy.
Ndifuna Ukwazi has submitted a letter to the City, calling for the City to retract the notice of intention to sell, which the City sent to the family. The City has failed to meaningfully engage with the family and is acting at odds with its obligations in relation to spatial transformation in Cape Town.
Dr Jonty Cogger remarked, “the City issued similar notices of intention to sell to long-standing households residing in Shelley Road, Salt River. After much public outcry, the City has retracted those notices of intention to sell and intends to transfer home ownership to the residents of Shelley Road. We urge the City to do the same here.”
Ndifuna Ukwazi pleads with the City to engage meaningfully with this family that has lived in their home for generations.
Read more:
- Joy for Salt River residents in the process of becoming homeowners
- City changes tune toward well-located affordable housing but doesn’t change progress
- Land rights group welcomes CoCT’s move to the halt eviction of nine families
- ‘Neighbourhood’ makes debut at Baxter Theatre
