For nearly seven years, hundreds of residents have turned the abandoned Bakgomana Primary School into an informal settlement, refusing to leave until the government offers them alternative accommodation.
The school, which closed decades ago due to low learner numbers, became a haven for crime before families moved in, transforming classrooms into living spaces. Now known as an “estate” by its occupants, the building houses at least 200 people, with additional shacks erected in the yard for those who couldn’t secure space inside.
“We Had Nowhere Else to Go”
Residents admit their occupation is illegal but say poverty and lack of housing left them no choice. “We don’t disagree—it is government property,” said one resident. “But we wanted to push [the government] to give us what we are asking for.”
Living conditions are dire—there is no electricity, communal toilets are shared, and only a few water taps serve the entire community. Many say they moved in because they couldn’t afford rent elsewhere. “This school was damaged, criminals were raping kids here, stealing things,” said Nancy Kuno, one of the occupants. “We decided to make it a home.”
Government Pushes to Reclaim School Amid Housing Crisis
The Gauteng Department of Education now wants the building back, citing a severe shortage of schools in the area. “We are pressured—we cannot afford to have a school being used for something else when it’s zoned for education,” said a department spokesperson.
However, evicting the residents won’t be simple. The department has served eviction notices but insists it wants to act humanely. “We are working with the City of Johannesburg to find alternative accommodation,” the spokesperson said.
Residents say they never intended to stay permanently but need proper housing. “Poverty drove us here,” said one. “We are just waiting for the government to help us.”
As the standoff continues, the fate of Bakgomana Primary School remains uncertain, caught between the urgent need for classrooms and the desperate demand for housing.
