South Africa’s informal settlements are more than just collections of metal shacks; their names carry stories, irony and hope. Across the country, some informal settlements have names that might make you laugh, scratch your head or wonder about their origins, for example: Never Never in Mfuleni, Western Cape, earned its name from the saying, “you will never leave once you are here”. Thabo Nkosi, a community elder, said: “It’s not a bad place.
Life is hard, yes, but we support each other. The name is funny, but it also reminds us to keep pushing for a better future.” There is also a settlement with the same name in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. Nestled in Nyanga, one of Cape Town’s largest informal settlements, is an area called Europe.
Nomvula Maseko, a resident, said: “We call it Europe because it is far from everything, just like the continent. We joke that we are living in luxury, but the streets are full of challenges.” Despite cramped conditions, Maseko says the community is tightly knit. “Neighbours look after each other.
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If someone is sick, everyone knows.” In Durban a settlement called Hollywood reflects local dreams rather than actual glitz. Sihle Dlamini, a local street vendor, said: “We wanted a little star in our lives. It’s not Los Angeles but the spirit is the same: we dream big.” Plastic View in Pretoria East got its name from the plastic sheets used to build the first homes.
Thandi Nkosi, a resident, said: “People laugh when they hear the name, but it’s true. We made homes with what we had. Life here is not easy, but at least we have each other.” Local NGOs and community groups are helping improve access to water and electricity.
“The name reminds us to keep striving. We face challenges, but the people here are hardworking”, community leader Peter Molefe told TimesLIVE. “The name gives hope, especially to our children.” Gomorrah in Mdantsane was named for its high crime levels in the past.
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