Mowbray and Rosebank residents demonstrated against xenophobia and vigilantism during peak hour.

Around 15 to 20 residents gathered at the Durban Road–Liesbeek Parkway intersection from 07:00 to 09:00. They held placards in solidarity with migrants.

Groups including March and March declared the date a “deadline”. They demanded undocumented people leave South Africa or face violence.

The community deliberately chose to respond during peak hour to be seen. “Let’s keep our neighbourhood free from hate and violence. Different backgrounds. Shared community,” read one placard.

Another referenced the Constitution’s preamble: “Mowbray and Rosebank belong to those who live here.” The preamble affirms that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in diversity.

The Trust for Community Outreach and Education (TCOE) convened a community meeting on Monday afternoon. Residents and NGOs identified safe spaces in case violence broke out. Marlise Richter, a Mowbray and Rosebank Community Action Network (CAN) member, said the CAN had planned the response.

“Community members and NGOs in our area worked to establish safe spaces if violence erupted in our neighbourhood,” Richter said. They also aimed to reclaim public space.

Police confirm no incidents

Acting Station Commander Lizzette Pietersen confirmed that the area saw no incidents of intimidation or vigilantism on 30 June.

Pietersen said police were running regular blue-light patrols and stop-and-searches in the Rosebank area to maintain safety.

Anyone who witnesses intimidation or vigilantism can call 021 680 9681 or the emergency number 10111.

Rooted in history

Residents formed the Mowbray and Rosebank CAN during the Covid-19 pandemic. It joined Cape Town Together, a network of more than 120 hyperlocal groups across Cape Town and the Western Cape. Grounded in social justice, the CAN continued its work beyond the pandemic. In 2022, it organised a solidarity march after Operation Dudula marched to Groote Schuur Hospital.

The memory of 2008 runs deep here. During the xenophobic attacks of that year, violent incidents took place in these streets.

‘Many more believe in human rights’

Richter was clear about what the gathering represented.

“Far more people in South Africa believe in human rights, community and kindness,” she said. “A small, vocal group of vigilantes does not speak for this country.”

Her message to political leaders was direct. “Stop scapegoating migrants and focus on service-provision, accountability and rooting out corruption. Take strong action against the ringleaders of vigilantism.”

The CAN, she said, would not step back. “The CAN will continue community-building, celebrating diversity and making people from other countries feel part of the neighbourhood.”

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