**Sorry for not posting earlier everyone - we've been having some internet issues where we are staying. We should have it worked out soon and will post more pics/video asap**
There are several townships around Cape Town and Lungi’s grandmother, Sita, lives in one called Langa. Until recently (maybe 10 years ago) white people were not allowed to enter them. These areas are generally safe during the day but at night become dangerous when younger adults and teenagers hang around to drink and do drugs. I was strongly advised to stay off the street after dark as I would very likely be robbed at knifepoint and any resistance to a mugging could result in getting stabbed or shot.
Aside from the crime, Langa is a beautiful place with beautiful people. Entire families live in very small, 1 or 2 room homes, many without roofs or bathrooms. The house in the picture below is where Sita lives and is where Lungi’s father was born and raised. The area is very lively, the streets always filled with people hanging out and walking around. For the most part people are very curious about me (or maybe suspicious). Even though white people are now allowed in the townships, I don’t think many of them actually come in.
On Sunday we visited the grave site of Lungi’s grandfather and uncle, Tami. Tami was a priest with the local church and in 2005 was murdered in front of Sita’s home. We visited their grave sights so that they could feel our spirit close to theirs and bless us on our upcoming journey. We then attended a local church service where we were welcomed in front of hundreds of locals who applauded us and our presence. I’ve only attended 1 or 2 other church services in my life but I’m pretty sure this is different than the services in Canada; a lot of singing, drumming and a very joyous environment.
