@MandieLoweSA - Mandie

Some experiences in South Africa: Sister robbed at gunpoint once Mother robbed at gunpoint twice Father's car stolen My car windows broken twice Failed attempt at car theft left all locks broken, leaving me stranded on campus at night, unable to unlock my car Guard dogs Electric fencing Private security patrolling neighbourhood Panic button worn on person at all times (summons private security) Anti-car jacking devices Stun guns kept in car and handbag Concealed carry 3D printed gun holsters that attach to your bed frame Hunting knives in your bedside drawer Burglar bars on every window Trellidor slam-lock safety gates in corridors and entrances Burglar alarms throughout the house Neighbourhood Watch WhatsApp groups 20 CCTV cameras on your property Motion activated security lights News of murdered friends, family and acquaintances every couple of days WhatsApp messages about the crime next door, across the road, down the street Hobbies include archery, muay thai and running Training at the range like freaking John Wick I love and miss my family and friends, camping in the Baviaanskloof, sundowners in Camps Bay, flowers in bloom in Namakwaland, rowing on the Kowie River...but I never want my children to experience the constant stress and vigilance that is life in South Africa. This is normal life for many South Africans and that is why we leave.