roy, I do agree with you on the point of education, more money and time needs to be spent on the overall education of the entire nation, however, certain growth devices need to be put in place too, otherwise we will just end up with even smarter crims.
Unfortunately, the socio-economic makeup of SA is in a poor state, even the educated are finding it hard to find work. A place like Boven will not have it's problems solved with a little education. The rebuilding of the socio-economic structure of Boven needs to be addressed. But how? This is a question I put forward to the residents, business people and the local authority of Boven.
It is true what was said about climbers budgeting on trips and yes, they do not spend too much money, but hey, they still generate an income(even if it may be a small one) for the people who provide a service, and those that work for them.
What concerns me with a place like Boven, is the fact that a certain resort will not comment on this issue or even address the problem by upping security within the resort. We pay them a fee so we can pitch a tent and have a relaxing weekend away from the troubles of a city, only to be held up, have gear and other valuables stolen and worry about the safety of the ladies in the party. I will be boycotting the Elandskraans resort and giving my business to Roc & Rope and the likes.
Okay, in their defense, what can they do ? Up the security, make it more visible, have more people patrolling ? This could work, though who do they employ, the guy living in a shack that is surrounded by the same crims that target us ? But then again, perhaps the employment of ten more security guards may mean ten less crims.......
All in all, the solution is not clear-cut, as the problem is at a root level and complex. Personally I take my hat off to those that do meet and discuss the problem. At least they are doing something. But now they need to implement. I would suggest a multi-leveled plan, one that is structured to address the 'most in your face' problems in the short term but at the same time begin to identify, target and tackle the underlying problems that the community, tourists and the service providers face. The most important thing is to set up the plan, have set dates for targets and
'do' something instead of talking about it .
These problems are not going to be solved in the short term and it will take many years of restructuring and then a dedicated team to keep up the work for future years.
I personally refuse to give up on Boven or any other area that I may hike, climb or just sit around at. We as South Africans must pull together and be proactive about these things. Without teamwork from the local authorities, service providers, the community and the tourists(us), these problems wont go away. They will only get worse !
I myself will be talking to a few people about setting up a fund/donation that will operate on an on going basis and could be used for things like the upgrading of the local clinic or schools etc. Does anyone know if anything like this has taken place in Boven ? Has it worked ? Where did it go wrong ? Anyone with a simmilar idea ?
Peace
oh and in response to :
Its time you south africans woke up to the fact that if you didnt go about robbing raping and mugging each other for a couple of hundred rand
have you got a quick-fix solution to poverty, hunger & strife roy ? If so, let me in on your secret and we can become millionaires and fix the world at the same time !
Be safe and enjoy every moment, after all we live in Africa and you never know when its your last
Africa is not for sissy's