The city’s wounds are evident, but so is its potential for healing. There’s an opportunity for those who love Joburg to stand side by side, united in purpose, and work towards a shared vision of a brighter future. A future where the African sun shines down on a thriving and inclusive city.
Johannesburg, South Africa (24 July 2023) – In the wake of the devastating gas explosion that tore through Bree Street in downtown Johannesburg, leaving behind a trail of destruction, one man is calling on the people of Joburg to rise up and take a stand for their city.
Ryan Enslin, a passionate freelance travel writer and professional photographer, is rallying Joburgers and all South Africans to reclaim what is rightfully theirs and fight for a future they believe in.
Joburg, a city with a storied past and a resilient spirit, now lies broken and battered, as if wounded in the core of its being. The explosion that rocked its very foundation revealed more than just the immediate damage caused by the blast; it exposed the deeper issues that have been eroding the city’s infrastructure for far too long. The lack of maintenance, corruption, and the appointment of underqualified personnel to vital positions have taken their toll on public assets. Dodgy companies and gifted tenders without proper scrutiny have constructed flimsy infrastructure, leading to a system failure waiting to happen.
It’s no surprise that the consequence of a disaster is now amplified.
Ryan Enslin’s heartfelt message echoes the collective sentiment of those who call Joburg home. He speaks of a time when the city was wounded, but life continued, and its people emerged, though scarred, with newfound strength. Now, he urges them to find that strength once more and channel it into building a better future.
“What is the future of my beloved Joburg?” Ryan asks. “Where does the line lie, and when is the right time to ‘call it’? What about those who don’t have the luxury of ‘calling it’?”
These questions are not just for Ryan but for every Joburger. The time to answer them is now. Instead of feeling helpless and hopeless, it’s time to take action, no matter how small the steps may seem.
“Now is the time for those of us who call ourselves Joburgers to arise, to stand at her side and work resolutely together towards a mutually viable future. The urgent matter of the hour is – are we willing to work towards a shared vision that makes space under the glorious African sun for one and all?”
The city’s wounds are evident, but so is its potential for healing. There’s an opportunity for those who love Joburg to stand side by side, united in purpose, and work towards a shared vision of a brighter future. A future where the African sun shines down on a thriving and inclusive city.
Ryan acknowledges that he’s not sure about his next move, but he knows he must do something differently. And that’s the first crucial step. Change starts with individual commitment and taking responsibility for one’s role in rebuilding the city – and this happens by becoming active citizens.
Becoming an active citizen is crucial for fostering positive change and driving progress in a society.
How do we do that?
Well, we have listed five ways below that South Africans can become active citizens right now and contribute to the betterment of their country.
Engage in Civil Society Organizations: South Africans can actively participate in civil society organizations, such as community groups, NGOs, or advocacy organizations that work on issues they are passionate about. Joining or supporting these organizations allows citizens to contribute their time, skills, and resources to causes that matter to them, whether it’s environmental conservation, education, social justice, or healthcare.
Participate in Local Governance: Get involved in local government structures, attend community meetings, and engage with local leaders. VOTE in the 2024 elections! Citizens can voice their concerns, share ideas, and collaborate with authorities to address community challenges and make a positive impact on their neighbourhoods.
Stay Informed and Educate Others: Active citizens stay informed about current events, social issues, and policies that affect their lives and the lives of others. They can use social media, public gatherings, or community forums to educate others and raise awareness about important issues, empowering their fellow citizens to become more informed and engaged.
Volunteer and Offer Skills: Giving back to the community through volunteering is a powerful way to become an active citizen. South Africans can offer their skills, knowledge, and time to support initiatives or projects that uplift and improve the lives of others, especially those in disadvantaged communities.
Promote Social Cohesion and Inclusivity: Active citizens actively promote social cohesion and inclusivity in their communities. They encourage understanding, respect, and dialogue among people from different backgrounds, races, and cultures. By fostering unity and celebrating diversity, active citizens contribute to a more harmonious and tolerant society.
As Joburgers rise from the ashes of this devastating explosion, we are reminded that we are not alone. Together, we can overcome the challenges that have plagued our city and create a new narrative of resilience and progress.
The call to action is clear: Joburgers, stand up and unite for your city.
Be the architects of positive change, demanding transparency, accountability, and the necessary skills to manage and maintain the city’s infrastructure. Together, with determination and small steps of progress, a brighter future awaits the City of Gold.
by 