Townships are the communities in which most of the diverse South African population lives. Stemming out of the oppressive era of Apartheid, when residents of colour were prohibited from living within the suburbs, townships earned the reputation of being poverty-stricken areas where clean amenities and facilities were lacking. However, over the past few years, townships have emerged from these challenges as a culture-rich environment, home to a large spectrum of this Rainbow Nation.
Most of the townships, particularly in Port Elizabeth, are still made up largely of shacks  homes made by the inhabitants out of corrugated iron, wooden pallets, even paper and cardboard. Clearly, there remain economic challenges within these areas, which are usually located on the outskirts of a city’s commercial and suburban centre.
Despite various challenges, any visitor to the South African townships will notice the vibrant spirit that permeates their homes and residents. This sense of community is commonly referred to as “Ubuntu”. Port Elizabeth’s extensive townships are no exception.