Download PDFKagiso – Swaneville, residents are struggling with a lack of recreational centres and spaces for community programmes. Swaneville only boasts one community hall which is used for various events such as church gatherings, memorial services, and some community programs. The heavy traffic of events has often led to scheduling conflicts as the hall is not used for the purpose for which it was intended. Unfortunately for artists, there are limited opportunities for creative pursuits.
This problem discourages artists as they need space where they can practice to be in peak form for competitions.
Residents report that the limited availability of the hall has often forced artists and community groups to seek alternative venues, but those have usually unsuccess.
Young Minds Arts Project (YMAP), based in Swaneville say that at times when they need to rehearse at the hall, they find it occupied with other gatherings. At other times they say that they are not allowed when other events occur.
“We have searched for other places, [but] we do not find them. When we find alternatives, we are given a short time to work as our daily practices.” This situation is frustrating, report members of the YMAP. They say they need a dedicated space for their activities, a place where they can express themselves without worrying about conflicting schedules.
Another resident, Rachel Vilakazi, 36, said that there should be a safe and accessible space for their children to participate in activities like sports, music, and dance. Vilakazi is worried about her children’s safety and well-being when they are not in school.
Vilakazi and Hlatshwayo agreed that that it would be a game changer the local municipality should build Swaneville a multipurpose recreational centre allowing for generic civic activities.
The lack of recreational centres in Swaneville is not just an inconvenience but a disaster that the community is struggling to deal with as it prevents residents from crucial facilities.
To address the issue, local authorities should consider establishing a multipurpose centre that can accommodate different activities. This should be a project of the government and other stakeholders in the area. They have to work to identify suitable spaces and develop a program that meets the community’s needs.
A multipurpose centre would provide space for residents to come together, learn, and grow together. By investing in a multipurpose recreational centre, Swaneville can have a more connected community where the residents and the community as a whole can support young creatives within the community.
This article was submitted on 27 April 2025. You may republish this article, so long as you credit the authors and Karibu! Online (www.Karibu.org.za), and do not change the text. Please include a link back to the original article.
