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(SeSotho for 'Place of Gold ').

Map of Gauteng RegionWelcome to South Africa's smallest, but economically largest province: 

Stretching from Springs in the east to Magaliesberg in the west and south from the Vaal River to north of Pretoria, Gauteng covers less than 2% of South Africa's land surface but with almost 9 million inhabitants it generates 40% of the GDP. This treasure chest of valuable minerals, metals and precious stones is the financial, commercial and industrial heartbeat of South Africa. This page contains information on the various towns on the backpacking route in Gauteng. 

The lodges in each town are linked to their home page. Each lodge has a booking facility for each room in their establishment or the places on their tours. If you wish to book just follow the instructions on their booking page.

Travel Guide To Backpacking Accommodation in Gauteng

Select a section from the list below:

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South AfricaOld Gold Mine Shaft in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Everything about Johannesburg was improbable. Set on a bleak patch of windswept veldt, Johannesburg owes its existence to the discovery of Gold by a penniless Australian prospector- George Harrison (not of Beatles fame). 
He stumbled across the only surface outcrop of the main gold bearing reef of the Witwatersrand in March 1886. He left no description of his emotions when he casually panned a sample of strange looking rock that revealed the most fabulous tail of gold ever seen in a prospector's pan. 

Harrison pegged the first claim on the reef, which he later sold for Ł10 and then vanished without trace, never to be seen or heard of again. His report to the government on the discovery led to the greatest rush of fortune hunters the world has ever known.

Johannesburg, with Ponte and Hilbrow tower showing above the clouds. Today, a century from its humble beginnings, Johannesburg will invigorate you. Take a walk down a Jo'burg city street and buy corn roasted on pavement braziers from women in bright traditional dress. Or join the tourists flocking to the little side shops that sell traditional African medicine (muti) in stores crammed with medicinal bulbs, bird carcasses and a press of local inhabitants buying muti to make a romantic conquest, drive away undesirables or heal an ailment.
Market Theatre in New Town Cultural Precint, Johannesburg
A variety of museums and art galleries will satisfy every taste from exhibitions of the history of transport through to bushman paintings, while street artists perform everything from mime to authentic Zulu dancing. In the streets hawkers sell anything from pens and fluffy stuffed toys to intricately woven wire creations such as candleholders, model motorbikes and funky fruit baskets.

When hunger strikes, take in an authentic Indian curry at the Delhi Palace in Fordsburg- frequented by Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo in the fifties, or select from a range of excellent Japanese, Spanish, Italian, French, Thai or Portuguese restaurants in the plush northern suburbs.

 Travel east of the city to 80 Albert St, the heart of Johannesburg's old apartheid past to where the road ends in Mai Mai, the small village shopping center built for the migrant workers who were forbidden to shop in the "white" CBD. Even today it is possible to buy live chickens, cheap coffins, beautiful beadwork, sandals carved from tyres or have your fortune told by the local Sangoma (witchdoctor)

Ndabele woman selling her wares at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg Further a field, a visit to the so-called black townships that ring the city is imperative to gain an understanding of the South African reality. The most famous of the townships is Soweto (South Western Township). At first impression these seem to be grim, undifferentiated sprawls of shacks and houses but some of the suburbs are quite acceptable. Accommodations range from modern mansions through rows of low cost houses to shacks which squatters build wherever they can. 

 Many of the townships broke into a virtual state of war in the 1976 riots. The friendliness with which visitors are welcomed is surprising, given this recent turbulent history. The townships are, however, still in a state of social trauma and violent crime is commonplace. It is imperative to get advice on the current situation or, better yet, only enter the townships as part of an organised tour. Your lodge owner will be able to advise you regarding this matter. 

At night you can take your pick of theatre, a symphony concert, dance, jazz, rock, blues or rave venues. End the evening with traditional African meals taken at Carnivores in Muldersdrift or Gramadoelas Restaurant at the Market theatre complex. Here one can take in one of the local theatre shows at the same time for a truly African experience. 

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Backpacking or Hostel Accommodation in Johannesburg.

Bobs Bunk House in Edenvale is a comfortable Backpacking lodge situated 8 kilometers from the Johannesburg International Airport.  

Gemini Backpackers is a new lodge that shows all the makings of a truly superb Backpackers. The property is fully walled and there is parking for over 20 cars. Piet, the owner is always eager to offer advice or assistance. 

Zoo Lodge in Parktown North comprises two houses. The lodge is located near Rosebank where you will find all the amenities and the Zoo. Greg will assist you with your travel requirement. They have a well stocked bar and loads of travel info. 

All Backpacker Lodges in the Johannesburg area have well stocked, up to date travel information centers and the lodge owners will assist you with all your travel needs.

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MAJOR ATTRACTIONS IN JOHANNESBURG:

Pretoria - North South Backpackers - Pretoria

Union Buildings - North South Backpackers Lodge 50km north of Johannesburg, Pretoria represents a more laid-back lifestyle of Gauteng. Few cities, that have had as turbulent a political history, have turned out as friendly and attractive as Pretoria. The city has housed four governments, weathered controversy and cradled revolution.

Pretoria has historical value extending from the British Empire to the apartheid era and presently houses our current government. These combine with the miracle of the new, democratic government to give a melting pot of traditions, culture, language and architecture. Pretoria is currently South Africa's executive and administrative capital. It is a cultural city with some of SA finest museums, historic houses and monuments. It is also a academic city with no less than nine tertiary education institutions (amongst them four universities) giving some suburbs an unmistakable student-life vitality – the bar, club and restaurant scene are Lekker!!

The performing and fine arts flourish with the State theatre complex being the centre of the South African performing arts activities and a plethora of informal African jazz clubs dotted throughout the townships of Mamalodi and Atteridgeville.

Jacarada trees in full Bloom - North South Backpackers - PretoriaTake a walk on the wild side with a visit to the impressive National Zoological Gardens, home to over 3500 animal species or visit one of the more than 100 nature reserves and bird sanctuaries in and around Pretoria. During October and November Pretoria shimmers with a mauve haze of blossoming jacaranda trees. Millions of flowers fall to the ground forming pools of colour beneath each tree. About 70 000 trees line the streets of the city, a glowing tribute to the work of James Clark, a nurseryman who came to be known as Jacaranda Jim.

Pretoria is a sunny, spacious and laid-back city, notable for its beautiful gardens and trees, its concentration of embassies, consulates and official government & provincial offices. 

Andries Pretorius, the Voortrekker leader after whom it was named, could hardly have imagined that the small highveld town, set up in the Apies (small baboon) River Valley as the pride of the Boer Republic, would grow to 900 sq.km of political power, commercial vibrancy, residential tranquility and most of all Gauteng hospitality.

The backpacking lodges are situated in suburbs with student-life vitality with the exception of Kia-Ora Backpackers, which is located one block from the bustling train station. They all have a vibey atmosphere and are characterised by superior friendliness and hospitality. All lodge owners are able to provide you with a wealth of information regarding their city – its history, present and future. They also help with organising tours and trips. 

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Backpacking or Hostel Accommodation in Pretoria.

Kia-Ora Backpackers Situated in the city centre just a few blocks away from the station has just won the Pretoria Business Council - ASATA award as the “Best Lodge in Pretoria”. The lodge is adjacent to Melrose house and is itself a national monument. 

North South Backpackers Situated in a quiet residential corner of Hatfield just a 5 minute walk from the nightlife area of Pretoria. Fully equipped with swimming pool, indoor and outdoor bar, pool table, dorms, doubles and a large shady garden for camping.

Simply The Best Backpackers The new kid on the block. Situated close to the Union Buildings in a safe neighborhood they offer all the comforts of home and many en suite rooms. Enjoy relaxing in the garden and marvel at the amazing African Fig Tree, one of Africa's largest.

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MAJOR ATTRACTIONS IN PRETORIA:

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Crazy moments to record in your travel diary:

SOWETO

Jazz night at sheebeen - Kippies - New Town Cultural Precinct - Johannesburg Travellers delight - Also in SowetoSoweto, a sprawling metropolis, is one of the most famous settlements in Africa, where the history of South Africa was written on the streets, in the schools and the shebeens. This diverse and patriotic community led the war for justice and freedom during the late 1970's. Today Soweto is a living monument of the history of political struggle along with the hopes and aspirations of a dynamic and multi-cultural community facing the challenges of transformation. Soweto includes the Regina Mundi Catholic Church, the Oppenheimer Tower, the Hector Peterson Memorial, the former home of Nelson Mandela, Wandi's Place, the Cappuccino Shop and Freedom Square

The June 1976 student uprisings transpired in Soweto, sparking a wave of coordinated resistance to apartheid country-wide. Soweto became one of the most evocative words of the 20th century, as the quintessential symbol of the struggle for democracy in South Africa.

Remarkable and fascinating for the visitor, Soweto, is one of the top 20 tourism destinations in the country and is also one of the stars in the Gauteng crown of  a ‘twelve star destination’. Soweto certainly is the cultural heart of the province. No first-time visitor should leave Gauteng without visiting Soweto!

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The A to Z of SOWETO. 

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

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SAFETY IN GAUTENG:-

THE BEST AND SAFEST WAY TO VISIT SOUTH AFRICA, IS TO MAKE ALL RESERVATIONS IN ADVANCE. USE THE BACKPACK AFRICA BOOKING FACILITY. YOU WILL BE IN DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE LODGE, HOSTEL, TOUR, CAR RENTAL OR TRANSPORT COMPANY THAT YOU ARE MAKING THE BOOKING WITH!! THEY WILL THEN COLLECT YOU AT THE AIRPORT, TRAIN OR BUS STATION AND CAN ARRANGE DOOR TO DOOR TRANSPORT FOR YOU.

Firstly, Safety and security in Gauteng is the same as in any other large metropolitan city in the world and it is necessary to be cautious. Enquire at your lodge or at the SATOUR office at the Johannesburg International Airport or at any of the Tourist Information Centres in and around Gauteng.  

Secondly, tips on the Johannesburg International Airport: - 

In the interests of your own safety,  DO NOT BE TOUTED by either: -

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THE A - Z of SOWETO ( South Western Townships )

A - Afrikaans

Policies of institutionalised apartheid were introduced by a conservative, largely Afrikaner political grouping, the Nationalists. Afrikaans, although a rich and remarkable language, became associated with the culture of apartheid – and, therefore, with oppression.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

B - Banning Orders

Another infamous tactic used during the apartheid years to silence dissenting voices was the banning order. People from all walks of life were 'lawfully' served with banning orders over 4 decades.

Banning worked to make it illegal for an individual or an organisation to meet, work with or confer with other people or organisations for any purpose whatsoever. If an individual was banned, the order (which in many cases was house arrest)  was usually issued for a term of 5 years and carried draconian conditions:

Women activists were less likely to be given jail sentences, but banning was energetically issued to them. Women who suffered particularly from banning were Winnie Mandela, Albertina Sisulu, (wife of Mandela’s comrade Walter Sisulu, who was sent to Robben Island,) and a dogged white activist, Helen Joseph. Albertina Sisulu was almost continually banned during the ‘80s, during which time she continued to live in the family home in Orlando and work as a nurse. Helen Joseph, who only became politically active in middle age, eventually experienced over 10 years of continual banning. And Winnie Mandela was singled out for a particularly extreme form of banning when she was banished to a tiny rural community far from her home in Soweto called Brandfort. She remained there for some 8 years, before returning home in the early 1980s. Back to A to Z of Soweto

B - Biko - Steve  (1961 - 1977)

A key figure in the developments of anti-government resistance in the 1970s was an exceptionally gifted political thinker and activist, Steve Biko.

Biko developed the concept of Black Consciousness (BC), a doctrine emphasising the self sufficiency, worth and rights of black people in their struggle for freedom. Biko was a major threat to the state for his BC philosophy, which fostered the confidence of black activists to challenge the status quo. He died a brutal death in 1977 under mysterious circumstances whilst in police custody. Although Biko was never a resident of Soweto, his words and philosophy were seized upon by the children of the township and seen as a central inspiration for their actions. He therefore appears in the history of Soweto as one of the people who had a powerful effect on the course of destiny and history.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

C - Celebrities

Since Soweto sprang to international fame in the 1970s, many celebrities have visited the township to sample its life, culture, and to pay their respects at the gravesites of those who died. Amongst these are Fidel Castro, (Cuban head of state), Bill Gates, (the Microsoft billionaire), pop stars, and US President Bill Clinton. 

C - Cappuccino shop

Soweto recently boasted the firm establishment of coffee society with a vengeance! Says proprietor Busi, ‘our breakfasts are a phenomenon’.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

D - Dompas

The dompas (literally, ‘stupid pass’), was a central means of brutally controlling black South Africans. Anti-government activism focused on fighting the loathed pass, which Africans had to carry at all times, or face immediate jailing.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

E - Entertainment

Although technically, township residents were forbidden to run businesses (and in the 1960s it was illegal for Africans to buy or be sold spirits – they could only legally buy malts and wines), this restriction was widely disregarded! The tradition of the shebeen (a name which derives from an Irish word for illegal liquor still or outlet) is a long and honourable one in every South African township. In small taverns music is played, people meet to chat and relax and here visitors can easily meet Sowetans on their home turf! Back to A to Z of Soweto

Epicenter - of Style

"One only had to say Soweto and everyone listened. … People from other townships copied our styles and ways. We were trendsetters … We were South Africa." Nomavenda Mathiane, journalist and commentator, explaining how Soweto played a lead role in both politics and society

Soweto, aside from its political role, also has a reputation as a trend setting place of style and elegance. From the earliest development stages of the Highveld area, Johannesburg was seen by people in other parts of southern Africa (and especially black people still living in the rural areas) as a place of sophistication par excellence. ‘Clothing is very important in Soweto. We sit in late afternoon sunshine on the lawn watching neatly brushed, stylishly dressed guests stream in from the street. Lovers who arrive hand in hand are sartorially blended: she in white pants and a patterned turquoise silk Hermes reproduction, he in white trousers and a shirt of many, matching colours. It is the current fashion: you can immediately see who belongs to whom by colour coding.’ Journalist Heidi Holland in her book about Soweto

Soweto therefore undoubtedly still sees itself as the epicenter of new ideas, culture and trends, even in the ‘new South Africa’.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

F - Forced Removals

The Nationalist government from its earliest times in power- 1948, tried to ensure that blacks and whites lived in separate areas. A few places within city precincts remained legally mixed.

One of them was Sophiatown, a working-class Johannesburg suburb populated by thousands of multi-raced people, into a relatively few blocks of suburban land. As the 50s progressed, so did government plans to remove these so-called ‘black spots’.

Sophiatown residents were fiercely attached to their cosmopolitan community and its hybrid artistic culture. Many famous musicians, actors, writers, emanated from Sophiatown.

Certain liberal, sophisticated whites preferred spending time in Sophiatown. Drum’s editor Anthony Sampson, had this to say:-
‘I used to prefer spending my evenings in Sophiatown than in the white suburbs because it was such a fascinating place with a mixture of personalities in the shebeens, from well educated people like Can Themba to the gangsters, businessmen or politicians just dropping in for a drink. It was wildly romantic and tremendously entertaining … Sophiatown was a meeting place for so many’.

The Group Areas Act of 1960's dictated forced removals. Residents were removed and relocated to racially segregated areas. Some 60 000 people were removed from Sophiatown to a new Sowetan township called Meadowlands. One of the era’s most gifted writers, Bloke Modisane, himself a onetime resident of Sophiatown said in his book Blame me on History: ‘Walking down Good Street and up Gerty Street was like walking through a ghost town of deserted houses and demolished homes, of faded dreams and broken lives …’ Back to A to Z of Soweto

F - Freedom Charter

The Freedom Charter was one of the most important documents created as the resistance to apartheid intensified in the 1950s. It contained a list of all basic human rights equated with a just and democratic society. The charter was drafted at a historic, mass meeting in Kliptown, Soweto. The area in which the meeting happened, is now called Freedom Square.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

G - Gangs

Soweto, like all townships, has a gang tradition providing young men with a source of activity. The challenge facing South Africa today, is to provide proper means of employment for the youth. Not all township gangs turn to crime, however. Some act as cultural clubs, focusing on music and fashion. Back to A to Z of Soweto

H - Heroes

There are many heroes in Soweto, but perhaps the best known young figure in this category is that of Hector Petersen, the first victim of police bullets fired in June 16 1976.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

I - Intellectuals   Orlando

If Klipspruit was Soweto’s earliest settlement, Orlando was the district providing what was to become the blueprint of ‘matchbox city’ through the 1960s and ‘70s.

Orlando, named after an early Johannesburg citizen, Councilor Edwin Orlando Leake, is a part of Soweto that attracts international visitors interested in the life of former president Nelson Mandela as the tiny four-roomed house where he resided as a young lawyer can be seen here.

Orlando is a district that has more than its fair share of intellectuals. Some of South Africa’s most famous citizens live in Orlando. These include: Emeritus Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nelson Mandela (in the past), the Sisulu family, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, and many, many more. The area is said to have a high concentration of lawyers and teachers, and the schools in this part of Soweto have extremely high standards and a good academic record. Back to A to Z of Soweto

I - Industrial revolution

The urban sprawl of Soweto is the remarkable product of an extraordinarily rapid, process of industrialisation, resulting from mineral wealth found in the region. Within 10 years of gold being found (officially in 1886), thousands of people clustered to form a city. Many Sowetan families have lived in Soweto for three generations, and are sophisticated, urban people with no remaining rural links.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

J - June 16

June 16 is the day on which the Soweto Uprising began. Here’s how one student of the time described the situation:

‘It was a bitter experience for us in 1976 to study – for the first time in our lives in Afrikaans – Mathematics, Geography, Physical Science and Biology. This is because in the previous year we used English and in 1976 our marks dropped.’ (from The Soweto Uprisings: counter memories of June 1976, Ravan History Series)

June 16 was the day chosen by Soweto students to stage a peaceful protest against the introduction in black schools, as the new medium for instruction. (see A is for Afrikaans above).

Students in planning the march, had no violent intentions. An organiser: ‘The march was going to be an [easy-going thing] …. It would be like a Guy Fawkes thing and we would go around Soweto making other statements … we laughed about the matter, we were frustrated and some students who had a sense of humour wanted us to release the tension creatively. It never turned out that way …’

An estimated 5000 students marched together in Vilikazi Street. At all times, the students had the intention of a peaceful march. But when confronted by police, the mass of students refused to disperse. Said one:

‘We refused [to disperse], saying that ‘no we are not going to intimidate anybody, we are not going to loot, we are not going to do anything wrong. We are just going to march and demonstrate and sing and then go back home’.’

In response, the police let off teargas canisters – and then fired live ammunition. This was witnessed by journalists on the scene, whose accounts were vital in the aftermath. The first child to die was 13 year old Hector Peterson. His post mortem revealed that he had been shot directly, not by a bullet glancing off the ground.

Violent protests continued in Soweto for many weeks of 1976, and nation-wide. The experience of 1976 also forged new leaders from those teenage ranks, many of whom went on to become key members of the UDF (see the letter U), and important community and political leaders after the advent of a democratic government in 1994.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

K - Klipspruit

The earliest urban nucleus in Soweto was called Klipspruit. From 1904 onwards, white authorities in charge of managing Johannesburg city started moving non-whites to what is now Soweto. They used the outbreak of a 'plague' as a pretext to clear slums, housing African and Indian workers.

People living in these slums, including Indian and Chinese residents, were moved many miles from Johannesburg to the area still known today as Klipspruit. The remarkable main street of Klipspruit, dating from approximately 1906, bears witness to both the early days of the gold rush, and to the cosmopolitan nature of the first settlement. One can still see Indian and Chinese names , in the peeling paint of brick and iron buildings. These early ‘Sowetans’ were the traders and merchants bringing much-needed manufactured goods to the men, employed on the gold mines.

The main body of Soweto, (which is sometimes called ‘matchbox city’ because the houses here are so tiny they look like matchboxes), really dates from the 1930s. At that time the authorities began to plan the area now called Orlando. Back to A to Z of Soweto

L - Leisure and Life

Soweto may have its somber side by virtue of its tumultuous history, but it is also a place of enormous fun. Sowetans today are just as good at having fun as they were in the 1950s, as a visit to any of the shebeens on the Soweto shebeen route will prove. Much social life revolves around backyard shebeens, but, for the first time, there are new leisure centres and one or two well-appointed shopping malls similar to those found in Johannesburg’s affluent northern suburbs. One such centre is in Pimville. The nearby Pimville recreation centre boasts a gym and well appointed library.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

M - Music

The music of South Africa has been recognised as one of the most innovative and creative traditions in the world. From the very earliest times when music was first written in the region, musical traditions have grown, changed, and created whole new genres of melody.

Some of the earliest examples of this is evident in the way hymns were sung in the early 1900s. Nkosi Sikelele i Afrika , the national anthem is a mixture of African rhythm and Christian music. The style of music, mbaqanga is also a direct product of urban township life from the 1920s onwards. Famous to this kind of music, which also has a dance element, is the group Mahlathini and the Mohatella Queens, who are known internationally.

The major style rampant in clubs is known as kwaito, which emerged around 1993 and is a combination of computer-accurate rhythms and SA ‘patois’, which has proven to be devastatingly successful. Artists are wide and diverse, ranging from Skizo, Skeem, Jackknif to M’du.

M also stands for Miriam Makeba, one of the brightest singing stars of the ‘50s. . Her haunting hit ‘The Click Song’ made her a household name. Miriam has never forgotten the heady days of singing gigs in township halls with the immaculately turned out Manhattan Brothers … Back to A to Z of Soweto

N - Native Urban Areas Act

This Act, was one of the four key ‘building blocks’ of legislated discrimination. The Native Urban Areas Act concerned the strict regulation of urban development, and was remarkable in its detail and scope. All aspects of black life, movement and business – even in the townships, were regulated and controlled.. Back to A to Z of Soweto

N - Nobel Peace Prizewinners

Three South Africans have won the Nobel Peace Prize. The first was the awarded to Chief Albert Luthuli in 1960. The second was to Archbishop Desmond Tutu (Soweto resident) in 1984. And the third occasion was a joint award to ex-presidents F W de Klerk and Nelson Mandela in April 1994.

A favourite story Sowetans love to tell is how Vilikazi Street, Orlando, ‘is the only street in the world which is home to two Nobel prizewinners!’ Bishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu still lives in his home here, but Nelson Mandela now lives in Houghton, Johannesburg, with several members of his extended family, and his third wife, Graca. Back to A to Z of Soweto

O - Orlando

If Klipspruit was Soweto’s earliest settlement, Orlando was the district providing what was to become the blueprint of ‘matchbox city’ through the 1960s and ‘70s.

Orlando, named after an early Johannesburg citizen, Councilor Edwin Orlando Leake, is a part of Soweto that attracts international visitors interested in the life of former president Nelson Mandela as the tiny four-roomed house where he resided as a young lawyer can be seen here.

It is also said that Orlando is a district that has more than its fair share of intellectuals. It is certainly true that some of South Africa’s most famous citizens live in Orlando. These include: Emeritus Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nelson Mandela (in the past), the Sisulu family, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, and many, many more. The area is said to have a high concentration of lawyers and teachers, and the schools in this part of Soweto have extremely high standards and a good record of academic results. 

Back to A to Z of Soweto

O - Orlando Pirates

As in many poor communities, sport provides a much-needed outlet for the youth – and in Soweto, soccer is the thing. Young boys idolise their favorite soccer star, and attendance at games in the big stadium next to Soweto (the FNB Stadium) reach into the thousands. South Africa is currently bidding, as an officially soccer-mad country, to host the next Soccer World Cup.

One of the township’s most popular teams is Orlando Pirates. Here is what a fan has to say about days when Pirates were playing:

‘Soccer was perhaps the only sport that we knew something about or else was accessible to us as children in the ghetto, and we grew to love it. It was a culture in Soweto for some ..’  

 Back to A to Z of Soweto

P - Pageants

One tradition of township life that remains a strong as ever is the beauty pageant.

As Johannesburg grew, and Soweto with it, more and more black people became urbanised. They no longer really had homes in the countryside, and they saw themselves as sophisticated city-dwellers with all that that implied.

The tradition of the beauty pageant became a major cultural feature of the rapidly urbanising communities in the township, and this was superbly documented by a magazine which had its heyday in the 1950s and 60s – Drum.

The pageants also were a way in which talent could be showcased. Some beauty shows were more like talent competitions, where a magnificent lineup of dance and singing groups would perform. Today this tradition continues with township dance groups performing highly innovative styles to the heavy bass beat of one of South Africa’s most happening recent exports! - kwaito music.

P - Pap & Vleis

‘Pap and vleis’ is one of the main staples of many township dwellers diets. ‘Pap’ is a stiff porridge made from ground corn. ‘Vleis’ is Afrikaans for meat, and thus ‘pap and vleis’ is usually a tempting mixture of hot stew or sausage with a dollop of the porridgey pap. When eaten in an authentic manner, no cutlery is used. Back to A to Z of Soweto

Q - Quotable quote

‘During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die’. A famous quotation from Nelson Mandela’s presentation to the court during the Rivonia Trial in the mid 1960s, the trial that resulted in a sentence of life imprisonment.   Back to A to Z of Soweto

R - Regina Mundi Church

Regina Mundi, one of 18 catholic churches in the township, is another one of the township’s ‘must see’ sites. Built in 1962, the church is the largest in South Africa. It can comfortably seat 2 600, and a massive 6 000 standing on high days and holidays.

The church became famous during the political violence of the 1970s, when  it was the only church that remained open for services. Many churches in the township were owned by the government, and in times of unrest, such places were closed to prevent the holding of large political meetings.

However, the Catholic church refused to bow to pressure from the government to close the doors of Regina Mundi. It stayed open all through the dark days of 1976, and, inevitably, was the place where key political meetings were held throughout the period. The many funerals of all those who died at that time were also held here, regardless of their religion. Inside the church one may still see the damage done when the police tried to find students who had taken refuge from the bullets and teargas behind the church’s walls.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

R -  The ‘Rose of Soweto’, Boxing hero - Dingaan Thobela

Dingaan Thobela is a local hero in Soweto. Two times world boxing champion and ‘all round Mr. Nice Guy’, Thobela is a role model for many in the township.

Thobela cites Muhammed Ali as his all-time boxing hero, saying, ‘I liked his style, his banter and his successes in the ring. He was a real showman’. Thobela wowed the audience at his first international fight by arriving in the ring with armfuls of red roses, which he duly passed out to all the ladies present! This gave rise, inevitably to his sobriquet ‘the Rose of Soweto’.

Thobela lost the World Boxing Association crown to Mexican Tony Lopez, but has vowed to ‘become three times world champion’. But even if he doesn’t achieve this ambition, he’ll be OK. His other job is as an undertaker. As he puts it: ‘ Undertaking is one business that’s always prosperous. People must die; fortunately, when black people do, they want to go out in style.’  Back to A to Z of Soweto

S - Shebeens

Fanny's Place

294 Ramolongwana Street
Zone 8, Meadowlands

Proprietor Fanny Mokoena is the first black woman to be inaugurated as a member of the ‘Brandy Guild’ by the South African Brandy Foundation. She has brought together women in the liquor trade and formed forums. She is also a key founder of the historic Soweto Shebeen Route. African and western food is served, and Fanny specialises in running functions for groups such as kids parties and stokvel meetings etc. 

Open 7 days a week  Back to A to Z of Soweto

Mavis's Place

594 Vincent Road
Zone 6 Meadowlands

This is a sports bar Soweto-Style! A full bar is on offer along with African food. Reliable and friendly service which has been satisfying customers for 20 years.

Open 7 days a week
Contact Mavis Mwelase on: 011 936 5059 or 082 400 9997  Back to A to Z of Soweto

Shakara Shebeen

Restaurant and curios
Shop No. 8 Jabulani Shopping Centre
2330 Koma Road

A long-standing tradition in this bar and grill, is the discussion of social topics. Their hospitality standards are second to none. This is also the meeting ground of the older and the younger generation. Food tends largely towards traditional African fare.

Open 7 days a week
Contact Chris or Maureen on: 011 930 3712, 930 0236, or 083 442 0418 Back to A to Z of Soweto

Pallazo di Stella

Presently operating from Dube Police Station!

This joint offers an excellent pizza to the discerning customer! An all-Italian menu offers a wide range of thin crust pizza. All food freshly prepared with a take-away service to boot.

Hours: 0800 – 1800
Contact Stella Dubazane on: 011 982 1380  Back to A to Z of Soweto

Soweto Cuppuccino

11787 Mtipa Street, Orlando West Extension (not far from Winnie Madikizela’s house)

‘The first and only cappuccino shop in Soweto. Shortly to move to the Ubuntu Kraal complex, see A-Z above for full information.

Hours: Monday to Sunday 0800 – 1700 (closed on holidays)
Telephone: 011 936 1998 or 083 592 8263  Back to A to Z of Soweto

B's Place

5541 Shuenane Street, Orlando East

B’s Place is much more than a licensed bar and shebeen. B’s is a highly social place where people meet to bake and cook together, to engage in all kinds of miscellaneous activities, such as practice sport and chat. B’s often cater  for meetings and groups, but love meeting international tourists too. The menu includes western and African food, tea, and cake.

Open 7 days a week
Contact Beatrice on: 011 935 4015 or 082 843 32 81  Back to A to Z of Soweto

DJ's Bar Lounge

1198 Ngculu Street, Orlando East

This popular bar has been open since 1987. A charming atmosphere and fine food makes it a good choice for all occasions. DJs serves a great breakfast, lunch and dinner. Two pool tables ensure that there is fun and activity until all hours!

Open 7 days a week, 0800 ‘til midnight
Contact David or Josephine on: 011 935 7460  Back to A to Z of Soweto

The Blue Fountain

The Blue Fountain is a glamorous club offering fantastic live music on a regular basis. Started by the famous ‘Godfather of Soweto’, self-confessed gangster and fan of John Wayne, Godfrey Moloi, the Blue Fountain was welcoming the wealthy and famous way back in the 1980s, before partying in townships was really legal. Godfrey himself died recently, but the tradition he started still stands.
Contact no: 011 986 1142 or 082 254 7096  Back to A to Z of Soweto

Wandie's Place

618 Makhalemele Street, Dube Village

Wandie’s Place is known to celebrities around the world. One of Soweto’s best-known stops for the visitor, the food is always good, and the hundreds of business cards on the walls bears testimony to the incredible popularity of this favourite watering hole.

Open 7 days a week
Contact Wandi Ndala on: 011 982 2796   Back to A to Z of Soweto

T - Traditional Medicine

As one drives past Chris-Hani Baragwanath Hospital, one notices a magnificent array of goods for sale on the pavement opposite. Upon closer inspection, this is what is know as a ‘muti shop’, or the shop of an African Traditional Healer and herbalist. If you feel western medicine has failed you at the hospital, you can have an alternative consultation with him in his roadside surgery for a second opinion.

In addition to the herbalist, the African healing tradition also includes the role of the sangoma, or ‘chosen healer’. This person, who receives a calling much as does a priest in the doctrine of Christianity, assumes a role of mysticism within the process of healing. Sangomas sometimes go into trances, and commune with the spirits of the ancestors for guidance on the problem at hand.

It is possible for visitors to visit a sangoma if they wish for a consultation.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

U - UDF

Historians term the UDF (United Democratic Front) the most important political grouping of the 1980s. It was established in reaction to the establishment of what was called the Tricameral Parliament, a move by the Nationalist government to attempt to co-opt coloured voters to join their political party. Liberation movements within the country had, by this time, long agreed on basic precepts of basic human rights for all and a non-racial democracy where the protection of rights would be of paramount importance. The Tricameral Parliament therefore was seen as yet another tactic to prevent true democracy from prevailing in South Africa.

The UDF was formed in Cape Town, but the country had three regional UDF bodies managing action in each district. Albertina Sisulu, wife of jailed leader Walter Sisulu, was elected the leader of the Transvaal chapter of the UDF in 1983.

The UDF spearheaded the main resistance campaigns during the 1980s despite continued government repression. It was disbanded in 1991 after the unbanning of political parties. Back to A to Z of Soweto

V - Veterans of the Struggle

Although the name of Mandela is the most famous of all in terms of the struggle for freedom, Mandela’s close friend Walter Sisulu and his wife Albertina can also truly be dubbed ‘veterans of the struggle’.

Born in 1912, Sisulu, like Mandela, was born in the Eastern Cape area. He came to Johannesburg seeking his fortune, doing many menial jobs before, upon joining the ANC in 1940, finding his true vocation as a gifted leader and thinker.

Sisulu was one of the key figures of the Defiance Campaign of the 1950s, and, right up until his arrest in both the Treason Trial (where all defendants were acquitted) and the Rivonia Trial of the early 1960s, was continually at the forefront of the ANC’s actions and plans. He was also one of the Rivonia trialists who, like Mandela, was given a sentence of life imprisonment to be spent on Robben Island. The story of how the veteran activists on the island created a life and culture among their fellow inmates is an extraordinary one.

Sisulu was released just before Nelson Mandela, in 1989. At the age of 79, he immediately assumed office as Deputy President of the ANC, and elder statesman. He retired from active politics in 1994, and continues to live in Soweto.   Back to A to Z of Soweto

W - Women

The women of Soweto are frequently under-appreciated. Not only do they run their homes and often spaza (‘home shop’) businesses with style and skill, they also manage to look stylish and groomed. Sowetans don’t only wear western outfits, but, driving through the township, one will often see some echoes of the country’s rural past in the stunning outfits on show.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

X - Marking the spot on the map  Back to A to Z of Soweto

Y - Years of Soweto  - The Landmark Years  -  Timeline Soweto
1886 - Discovery of world’s largest gold deposit.
1900 - Black population on mines around 60 000.
1906 - Establishment of Klipspruit and Pimville African location south west of ‘white’ town.
1923 - Rights for Africans own land removed.
1930 - Government purchases land to establish Orlando Township.
1941 - Nelson Mandela arrives in Johannesburg.
1944
 -
 Overcrowding in townships results in the ‘Messiah’, James Mpanza, leading squatter movement.
1948 - Nationalist Party wins election; implements policy of apartheid.
1950 - Foundation Acts of apartheid passed.
1952 - Launch of ANC’s Defiance Campaign.
1953 - Group Areas Act entrenches separation.
1955 - Sophiatown cleared.
1955 - Drafting of Freedom Charter, Freedom Square.
1956 - 156 activists face trial – the Treason Trial.
1958 - Nelson and Winnie Mandela marry in Soweto.
1960 - Sharpeville shootings.
1963
 -
 ANC’s armed resistance high command captured in Rivonia, north Johannesburg. The subsequent trial is called the Rivonia Trial, and results in life sentence for Mandela.
1972-7 - Concepts of Black Consciousness developed and circulated by Steve Biko.
1976
 -
 Soweto Student uprising, protesting the use of Afrikaans in schools. Townships countrywide erupt in solidarity. The first victim of the uprising is Hector Peterson.
1977 - Biko’s death in police custody fans resistance.
1977 - Winnie Mandela banished to Brandfort for 8 years.
1980 - Campaigns of civil disobedience eg boycotts increase.
1983 - United Democratic Front (UDF), founded.
1984 - Archbishop Desmond Tutu is awarded Nobel Prize.
1986 - Pass Laws abolished.
1988 - 17 anti-apartheid bodies are banned in massive clampdown.
1989 - Walter Sisulu released, returning to live in Soweto.
1990 - Nelson Mandela released, returning to live in Soweto.
1990s - Conflict in townships between Inkatha Freedom Party and ANC.
1992 - Veteran white activist Helen Joseph is buried in Soweto.
1993 - ANC chairman Oliver Tambo dies. Mass funeral held in FNB soccer stadium Soweto.
1993
 -
 Nelson Mandela and Nationalist Party leader FW de Klerk jointly receive Nobel Peace Prize.
1994 - First free election. Nelson Mandela inaugurated as President.
1995 - Death of Joe Slovo and his interment in Soweto
1997 - Visit of US President Bill Clinton to Soweto
Back to A to Z of Soweto

Z - Zola Budds and Mary Deckers

In Soweto, run of the mill things and objects are often given very evocative names. The names of Zola Budd and Mary Decker, two gifted athletes of the 1980s from different countries, is a wonderful example of this.

The names apply to the minibuses which form the main means of transport for township-dwellers. They names were chosen because of the historic occasion when the two women runners met at an international athletics meet.

Zola Budd is a South African, who in the 1980s displayed an extraordinary talent for running. At the time, South Africa was banned from international sport, and Budd, to be able to compete internationally, engineered British nationality.

Thus already a controvercial figure, she caused an outcry when racing against American Mary Decker, when the two women collided and fell on the track. Decker accused Budd of tripping her up, and the story hit the headlines. Sowetans dubbed the Toyota minibus Zola Budds (also because they are driven very fast!), and their opposition vehicles, Mazdas, are known as Mary Deckers.  Back to A to Z of Soweto

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