Alexandra landmark – Madala Hostel
ALEX – We look at the history of Alexandra Men’s Hostel.
Alexandra Men’s Hostel known by Alexandra residents as Madala’s Hostel, has played a vital role in Alexandra’s history and current events.
In the early 60s, the apartheid government decided to destroy all family accommodation in the township and replace them with single-sex hostels. This was met with widespread resistance and protests. However, due to pressure from the Rev Sam Buti’s Save Alexandra Party, only two hostels were actually completed, Alexandra Men’s Hostel is one of them.
Situated on the corner of Alfred Nzo Street and 4th Avenue, the hostel was initially meant to house 5 000 men, however, the hostel now houses a greater number of men, women and children. The hostel is traditionally an Inkatha Freedom Party stronghold and has been the scene of many violent incidents in Alexandra’s history.
