It is very interesting to read all these posts and the opinions expressed. I think that often it so in your "back yard" that you in fact do not realise what is going on around you. I left South Africa many years ago (lost my work through the Affrimative Action Policy) and unfortunately I still have children there which I am pushing to leave as soon as possible. They have both recently graduated and cannot find employment.

Living away from there but at the same time still having family and hearing what is going on, it is a wonder that I actually sleep at night.

I have been to the Homecoming Revolution seminar here in London and I do believe that they are living in a blinkered world. Well now with all the power cuts through the country, probably more like a dark world. They have a crunch at the moment to get things done for the World Cup so thay want all the expertise back that left, yet nobody would give a guarantee that come 2010 you will not be sent packing again.

On my last visit in April 2007 it was most noticable that people do not move around after dark. My daughter lives in Durban and we went for a meal at the wharf development near the old yacht harbour. Coming back around 10pm the roads were so empty I actually asked if there is some curfue in place or something and were we allowed out, simply because it was so quiet. Similar situation in Cape Town visiting my son.

Both have had cellphones stolen, cars broken into and the like. Thank the Lord nothing more serious.

I really cannot imagine what it would be like to go back, although my heart stills lies in that piece of the African continent below the Limpopo.

André