June 4, 2025 – While the presence of long-standing violence and instability in certain neighborhoods is a result of a very complex set of factors, that can be socio-economic, political, religious or ideological, WPDI is convinced that lack of communication channels is always one of them. This is why we firmly believe that dialogue should be at the heart of the process of healing and peacebuilding. As part of our Peacebuilding mandate, our Community Dialogues program is therefore designed to create safe spaces where community members and conflicting parties can come together to discuss issues peacefully. These discussions are facilitated by Youth Peacemakers trained by WPDI.
We recently held a dialogue at the Hanover Park Community Hall in the Cape Flats, South Africa. 67 residents from townships including Manenberg, Athlone, and Bonteheuwel came together to address one of the most pressing issues currently facing their communities: gang violence. The event was led by WPDI Youth Peacemakers and organized in partnership with the Department of Early Childhood and Social Development of the City of Cape Town and local community leaders.
The main motivation for the event was the ongoing increase in gang violence across the Cape Flats, which has become a source of deep concern. For years, this region has suffered from the scars of gang warfare, where generations of children have grown up surrounded by fear, trauma, and the constant threat of violence. The dialogue created a safe space for residents to speak candidly about these realities and the forces driving them.
Some participants described how the desperation for economic survival often leads young people into gangs. Selling drugs, they said, can sometimes feel like the only option to earn money for basic necessities, including a sense of purpose. Others spoke about how joining a gang offers a sense of belonging, status, and protection – in contrast to the isolation and danger of standing alone. “We live in broken communities where peace and tranquility are non-existent,” said Remenia Henry, a member of the Community Policing Forum. “But today’s dialogue has given me hope that by cultivating a culture of peace within our homes, we can collectively change our situation and create a brighter, more harmonious community.”
Encouragingly, the event was marked by optimism and resolve as participants concurred that solutions could be worked upon and that inaction was not an option. Community leaders emphasized the importance of continued conversations and collaboration. “Building, making, and keeping peace in Hanover Park is totally possible, but it’s going to take all of us working together,” said community leader Shaunaya September. “We need to keep having these regular dialogues to break the cycle of violence that has been holding us back. Huge thanks to WPDI for showing us the way. I truly believe that if we stick together we can achieve peace. It’s not just a dream, it’s a reality we can create.”
In response to the concerns raised, local leaders committed to holding regular meetings and explore long-term strategies that address the root causes of youth gang involvement. These include lack of employment, limited recreational activities, and social isolation. Local entrepreneurs pledged to support unemployed youth by involving them in positive community initiatives and helping them connect with social services and employment networks.
Community member Haylee Claasen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak openly about the challenges her community faces. “Thank you WPDI for creating a space where we can openly, outwardly express what deeply affects our community and for being willing to help us get to the root of the problem.”
The ongoing impact of these dialogues reaffirms our unwavering belief: when communities unite with courage and compassion, transformation is not just possible, but inevitable. With steadfast commitment from residents, leaders, and partners like WPDI, the vision of a more peaceful Cape Flats moves closer to reality every day.
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