Walking down C Section in Ziphunzana, East London, passersby can see Iyahcracy Government’s double-storey shack pointing to the heavens.
People stop and take pictures next to the vibrant four-roomed shack, which Iyahcracy built in 2017.
“Every Rastafarian comes and relaxes here. It is their happy place where they talk about things that are important to them,” he said.
“And we do not chase away residents who want to learn more about our beliefs.”
He said many people didn’t believe he could build a double-story shack until it was finished, and then they started coming to take pictures.
“The place is open to everyone as long as they don’t cause trouble for us. We are peaceful people who don’t like fighting,” he said.
He said before Covid-19, he was running a business because people would come and take pictures and ask for food.
“I decided to sell food. We were selling fish and chips, including a full meal and we sold to Rastafarians and people in general,” he said.
“I’m opening the place again because it was not only about food. We were also sharing how we live and teaching them about our life.”
Local resident Masixole Lukhele fears the double-storey shack might fall over one day while there are people inside.
“It looks strong, but I’m worried about their safety,” she said, but confessed that she liked the building.
“They are creative people and the shack is beautiful. I’m not surprised that people take pictures next to the shack.”
Pictured above: The double-storey shack in Ziphunzana, East London in Eastern Cape, attracts many visitors
Image source: Buziwe Nocuze
