Ongoing struggle at Riemvasmaak

KAROO NEWS - Riemvasmaak, an informal settlement in the shadow of Tantjiesberg, facing Pearston, tells a tale of human resilience and community care. Established to house the homeless residents who once lived at a nearby dump, Riemvasmaak has been home to families seeking a better life since Christmas Day 2011. On that day, the late Alfred Pannies (former councillor of Ward 3) shared a poignant moment with the dump dwellers, having lunch with them before facilitating their move to a new, albeit modest, beginning.

Among those first to be relocated was Andries Jacobs (57), who saw in this opportunity a chance for a fresh start.

The settlement was equipped with basic amenities: electricity, a communal tap, and a toilet. A year later, as more families arrived from backyard dwellings, eight additional toilets were added.

For Jacobs, however, life remained a struggle. Jobless for nineteen years, he lives with his sons, Elroy (22), Elton (18), and a five-year-old son. Their daily existence is a harsh one, reliant on scavenging at the dump to find food or items to sell. Sundays offer a brief respite, as Jacobs and his father-in-law, Jan Simons, enjoy watching soccer at a nearby field.

Jacobs' journey to Riemvasmaak began with seasonal work on a fruit farm in Villiersdorp. Upon returning home one year, he found his shelter gone and no work available. This led him to the dump, where he and others began to build makeshift homes. Recognising the inhumanity of this situation, the Camdeboo council, led by Daantjie Japtha (then mayor) and the late Pannies, established Riemvasmaak, providing essential services like water and sanitation.

Despite these efforts, Jacobs' life in Riemvasmaak has not significantly improved. His wife passed away last year, leaving him to care for their young son. Their shelter lacks furniture and electricity, and they continue to rely on the dump for survival. The community has taken notice - the situation was reported to the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa), the local councillor and the Department of Social Development.

When Graaff-Reinet Advertiser visited Jacobs in May he immediately saw hope for change in his life. The case was reported to Sassa who responded promptly, delivering a grocery pack to Jacobs and his family on 24 May.

Concerned neighbours, including the Jantjies family who previously cared for the young boy, have also expressed a desire to help. They wish to assist Jacobs in raising his son, having developed a deep affection for the boy during the months he lived with them.

Further support came on 27 May, when Sassa Area Manager Zamile Booi and Jonathan Tarentaal followed up to ensure that the five-year-old could obtain a birth certificate and be registered for child support. Additionally, they looked into social relief for Jacobs' older sons and other potential aid for him.

While the community of Riemvasmaak rallies to support Jacobs and his family, their situation underscores the ongoing struggles faced by many in informal settlements. The collective efforts of neighbours, local authorities and social services highlight both the challenges and the compassionate spirit that define this resilient community.

Andries Jacobs and Jan Simons watching soccer last week.