Introduction:
Soweto South Africa is located in the city area of Johannesburg in the Gauteng district. Soweto stands for “South Western Townships”. FYI: the term “township” in South Africa refers to the poor, underdeveloped living areas that are usually on the outskirts of major cities. These townships were built during apartheid to separate blacks, coloureds and Indians from whites. Soweto was developed as a township for black people. 99% of its current inhabitants are black. Soweto South Africa is well known for fighting against and resisting apartheid. It is home to many historic sites.
I spent my first full day in South Africa touring Soweto. I walked through the streets of the Soweto uprising, pass the former home of Nelson Mandela and ont to the Hector Pieterson Museum. We spent time in the Kliptown area, the Orlando area and also walked through the townships. The feeling you get walking through the streets of Soweto South Africa is really indescribable. Therefore, I have decided to take you on a visual tour of what I experienced.
Conclusion:
I hope you have enjoyed this tour through Soweto South Africa! I traveled to Soweto courtesy of the YMCA but for those interested in touring the area I did find this website. Have you been to Soweto? If so share your thoughts with us! Before you leave be sure to check out my other “street scenes” blog post on Sorrento Italy.
These are such poignant images of Soweto, especially the one of Hector Pieterson. Did you guys do any volunteer work in the township?
Thank you Dana. Through the YMCA we were able to tour the area and learn about the YMCA’s involvement in making a difference in these communities. Hopefully more awareness will lead to more funding to improve these areas.