Khayelitsha's guided jogging tour: cultural exploration or poverty tourism? The debate unfolds

The advent of a unique guided jogging tour through Khayelitsha, Cape Town's largest township, has sparked a debate among netizens about the ethics and value of such an experience.

Local tour operator ABCD Travel is at the centre of this controversy, offering both local and international tourists a chance to lace up their running shoes and jog through the township's streets for R1 050 via Webtickets.

The tour, which includes an introduction to Khayelitsha's history and community, promises more than just a run; it offers insights into the growth of informal communities, the current population size of the township, and its cultural dynamics.

The experience also includes stops at a local school, a co-working space, and a coffee shop.

“This experience is perfect if you want to explore the township in an unconventional way,” states the tour operator.

Social media reactions to the jogging tour, however, reveal a polarised opinion among users.

While some question whether it represents a new form of "tourism" or is merely a commodification of the township, others commend the entrepreneurial spirit behind it.

User @originalmnh shared his thoughts on Instagram, stating, “So jogging in the township has been normalised as a concept. People are paying a thousand rand for this experience … On paper, this just feels wrong.”

The responses to @originalmnh's post showcase the complexities of this dialogue.

@cheeky_dee3 remarked, “Are they treating the township like a safari? WTH?” expressing concerns about the nature of the experience.

Whereas @yayah_236 articulated a different perspective, stating, “When I visit Cape Town, I'm definitely doing this as a runner … Big ups to our black brother for a brilliant business idea. Love it.”

Further support came from user @masentle8, who defended the project, saying, “SA does not have jobs; let the man eat. This is just a business opportunity … If there are people who are willing to pay to jog in the township, let the man eat.”

Conversely, @drsikentanda brought a more humorous lens to the discussion, asserting, “People pay for unfamiliar experiences all the time. I hope he makes a lot of money out of it… I just hope he has an ‘at your own risk’ clause because they look ridiculously robbable.”

The jogging tour coincides with South Africa's marathon season, a time when many tour guides are innovating to attract both runners and tourists.

Khayelitsha offers a rich cultural tapestry, showcasing its heritage, vibrant cuisine, and thriving local businesses and artists.

Visitors can engage with the community while experiencing a unique side of Cape Town, distinct from the usual tourist pursuits.

However, safety remains a paramount concern.

Khayelitsha's reputation for high crime rates - marked by incidents of robbery, assault, and gang violence - should not be overlooked.

The township grapples with overcrowding and insufficient infrastructure, making it crucial for visitors to be aware of their surroundings and exercise caution during their exploration.