Kasi’s well-to-do pimp their ‘hood
IF you have never been to any of South Africa’s townships you possibly have a skewed perception on what really goes on there. Depending on where you get your information, you may not know of the beautiful homes that exist there. We are talking huge, stylish buildings that could be uprooted and be placed in any flashy neighbourhood. Yet, they remain in the “’hood”.
Kasi Cribs: Edladleni, which airs on eKasi+, channel 105 OpenView HD, shows you why. Hosted by the sassy actor, comedian and musician, Siyabonga Radebe, the series shows you the culture of opulent housing in the otherwise crowded townships.
If you know the history of South Africa, then you know that the emergence of the township was as a result of the apartheid government handling the migration of black people to the cities. So instead of living in the cities, locations (townships) were created for these migrants so that they would remain at arm’s length from the white communities. As one can imagine, the living conditions in the townships were appalling. Yet the residents thrived and in 2014, if you drive through the streets of Soweto or Thembisa, you will notice that while the traditional four-roomed house still stands, a lot of other buildings have been erected over the years.
When some people amassed wealth, they could not fathom the idea of moving so they made the best of their situation. This saw the extension of the old, small houses into charismatic mansions.
Names to think of when we talk about this subject include the chairman on Orlando Pirates, Irvin Khoza. The man still lives in Soweto despite the amount of money he has made from football. His home is known to many and is a testament to true success.
Then there is the singer, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse who is said to be situated in Dube. After years of making money behind the mic, he still believes in living where he started out. Of course, in a much more comfortable home.
These people and their stories inspire the average dreamer as they are testimony to what hard work can achieve.
“The beauty of local content in a South African context is that you do not have to create a fictional story; we live in a country rich with experiences, diversity and aspirations. Ours is to capture it and reflect it in the most real form. Kasi Cribs: Edladleni will warm people’s hearts and ignite their aspirational spirit. We are looking forward to serving as a platform for this riveting production,” said Monde Twala, MD for e.tv channels division.
● Kasi Cribs, Feb 1, 6.30pm, eKasi+, 105 OpenViewHD.