CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR
Alexandra (often abbreviated as "Alex") is one of South Africa’s oldest and most iconic townships, situated approximately 12 km northeast of central Johannesburg. It is famously characterized by its extreme proximity to Sandton, one of Africa's wealthiest financial districts, highlighting a stark socioeconomic contrast.
History and Legacy
Establishment: Founded in 1912 on land originally owned by a farmer, H.B. Papenfus, and named after his wife.
Freehold Property: Historically significant as one of the few urban areas where Black South Africans could own freehold land before the 1913 Land Act.
"Dark City": Historically known as "Dark City" due to the deliberate lack of electricity and street lighting during the apartheid era.
Famous Residents: Nelson Mandela lived here in the early 1940s; his former residence is now a recognized heritage site.
Socioeconomic and Current Status (2026)
Population and Density: Originally intended for 60,000 people, the township is now severely overcrowded, with estimates ranging from 170,000 to over 600,000 residents living in roughly 7.6 square kilometers.
Infrastructure: As of early 2026, the area continues to struggle with aging infrastructure, poor sanitation, and illegal settlements along the Jukskei River.
Economic Challenges: Unemployment remains high (estimated at 35%), and a significant portion of the population lives in informal dwellings known as Imikhukhu.
Education (January 2026): Current news reports highlight school placement queues for the 2026 academic year and government oversight visits to local primary schools.
Public Safety
Crime Hotspots: Areas like London Road and the S’tswetla informal settlement are frequently identified as crime hotspots.
Recent Incidents (January 2026): In mid-January 2026, fatal shooting incidents were reported in the township, including a taxi-related shooting on 8th Avenue.
Community Response: Due to high rates of contact crimes and drug-related issues, residents often participate in local street patrols to support police visibility.
Development Projects
Alexandra Renewal Project (ARP): An ongoing government initiative aimed at improving housing, sanitation, and social services, though it has faced criticism for slow progress.
Gauteng Central Integrated Mega City: Approved in late 2024, this project aims to eventually deliver 81,000 housing units to alleviate pressure in the region.
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