The activist who created a kibbutz in Kliptown

Sowetan community leader and social activist Bob Nameng, who passed away at 54 on 19 April, was so influenced by a visit he had to Israel that he created a kibbutz in Soweto and began observing Shabbat.

Having dedicated his life to empowering local youth through education, arts, and community development initiatives, he used his home in Kliptown for communal living, in which young locals live, share a library, and a vegetable garden.

Nameng went to Israel in 2003 on an informal education programme, which he said was transformative for him. “I knew little about Jews or Israel beyond what I learned from the Bible,” he told people afterwards. “But when I experienced Israel and what it offered, I encountered another level,” he said.

“The Jewish people have overcome their trials and pain. We, as Africans, are still healing, and have yet to come to terms with our troubled past. If there’s anyone we can draw lessons and inspiration from in our process of healing, it’s the Jewish people. Their spirit is what we need here.”

Nameng would tell people that he believed Shabbat should be a global occurrence. And that he believed that the kibbutz communal living system emphasised shared responsibility and equality.

He created a sanctuary where children could feel heard, seen, and empowered to believe in their potential. He encouraged young people to dream boldly and to have confidence in their ability to shape their own future, regardless of their circumstances.

His connection to Israel was strengthened by his friendship with Ilan Ossendryver, a South African photojournalist known for documenting pivotal moments in South African and Israeli history and for being a tour guide to Soweto. “Bob was an incredible friend, a brother. He inspired me in so many ways,” said Ossendryver.

As a tour guide, Ossendryver brought many international guests, including some of the 7 October survivors and hostages to Kliptown, and Nameng would always share his inspiration with them.

In early 2018, Nameng’s vision of intercultural engagement came to life through the “Your Neighbour/Makwelwane” project. Jewish youth movements such as Habonim and Bnei Akiva, along with students from Johannesburg’s Jewish schools, initiated monthly visits to Kliptown.

Nameng was more than just a community leader, he was a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change within his community. His unwavering commitment to uplifting the youth of Kliptown transformed countless lives.