Housing activists say they are considering appealing a Western Cape High Court ruling ordering 161 people living at the Transnet-owned Culemborg site in Cape Town to vacate the property by 30 September, warning that any eviction must prioritise the dignity and wellbeing of affected families.
The court’s decision has reignited concerns about Cape Town’s housing crisis, with activists arguing that relocating residents to emergency shelters would not provide a sustainable solution.
Speaking to VOC News, Housing Assembly activist Kenneth Matlawe said the organisation is exploring its legal options while engaging with residents on the way forward.
“We are considering appealing the High Court’s decision, although we know resources are limited. At the same time, we want to ensure there is meaningful engagement with residents and that any alternative accommodation takes into account families, children and people’s need to remain close to the city,” he said.
Matlawe said the group is particularly concerned about the prospect of families being placed in emergency shelters, arguing that such facilities are temporary and often separate families because they operate on a dormitory-style basis.
He further questioned whether the City of Cape Town has sufficient suitable accommodation available, saying many temporary relocation areas are already overcrowded.
“Emergency shelters are not a long-term solution. We want alternative accommodation that offers some level of permanence and keeps families together,” he said.
The Housing Assembly believes the case highlights the broader shortage of affordable housing in Cape Town and says it will continue advocating for secure tenure and humane relocation measures before the September deadline.
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