Mapoch is a rural village about 40 minutes outside of Pretoria. In 1953, under apartheid, the village was moved from its original location, resulting in a loss of grazing lands for cattle, as well as the homes they had had for years. In 2002, the government helped set up a “cultural village”-with the idea that the people could benefit from the tourist industry. Unfortunately, as is often the case-the thought was not followed up with funds or direction. The village was becoming rundown and of course getting nearly zero tourist action.
A few years ago a couple who run a company called Voluntours stepped in. Since then they have helped route volunteers from around the world through Mapoch. They have helped (immensely) improve a preschool (pics on my site) and set up a “bicycle project”, which has given some community members a way to earn a living (delivering everything from groceries, TVs, to running taxi service getting kids to school!!)
This was where I spent Sunday night. As we arrived, we crossed a bridge that is only one lane, due to the fact that it got partially washed out and this area is low on the list for improvements by the municipality. The power was also out (not a rare occurrence, I’m told) so dinner was by candlelight and I was grateful to have a flashlight. There was also no hot water.
In the morning I had tour of the village by one of the members. The 260 people who live here are all descended from one chief and two wives!! The “gogos” or grannies earn money by selling beaded items. The men and some younger women earn money by working in Pretoria-a two-hour commute each way on public transport (the only option if you don’t own a bike, most don’t have the money for a car).
The people were all very friendly, happy to show me around-and the kids of course loved having their pictures taken and seeing them afterwards! Hooray for digital!
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