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South Africa Travel + Tourism Guide: Soweto

Soweto

Soweto is perhaps the most infamous area of South Africa. The name is an abbreviation for South Western Townships, and it is now a part of the city of Johannesburg to the southwest of the center of the city. It is populated almost entirely by Black South Africans, and is best known for its apartheid-era riots and police action.

People were originally drawn to the area in the late 19th century to work in nearby gold mines. During and following World War II, more people were attracted to the area as it became increasingly industrialized.

From 1948, the South African National Party came to power and introduced the policies of apartheid. This included removal of Blacks from white areas, and resulted in a population surge in townships such as Soweto.

© City of Johannesburg Playing Soccer in Soweto

Soweto erupted in mass protests in June of 1976. The protests were as a result of government policy to have schools teach in Afrikaans instead of English. Police opened fire on a large group of student marchers, and more than 500 died.

In the 1980s, there was further protest, this time to incorporation of the area into Johannesburg. Soweto did finally however formally become part of Johannesburg in 2002.

Nelson Mandela lived for many years in the Orlando area of Soweto. His home is now a tourist attraction.

Soweto Information

Soweto Tours

It is NOT recommended that you go to Soweto on your own. Safety is a very real concern. Tours are available. Ask at your hotel.

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