Passionate, endearing, tenacious and radical are just some of the words that defined Howard Soetwater, a housing activist who was never afraid to take up the fight for the marginalised, according to those who knew him.
Mr Soetwater, 56, chairperson of the United Homeless People’s Association (UHPA) died on Wednesday May 29 when he collapsed at a friend’s house in Retreat while celebrating election day.
Friend Douglas Wagenstroom recalled the good as well as the intense times when Mr Soetwater was at the forefront of protests.
“He was such a star, and he was always there, doing everything he could for backyard dwellers and those who needed housing. He was a true fighter, and he will be gratefully missed.“
Mr Soetwater played a key role in the fruition of the Cuba Heights housing development in Lavender Hill.
He also contributed to the planning and development of other pockets of land in the greater Retreat area, including the Crestway housing project, which has been approved by the City of Cape Town (“500 houses planned for Retreat,” Southern Mail, December 1, 2021).
Ward councillor Marita Petersen, who knew Mr Soetwater as a family friend, said he was a gentle soul and had kept her on her toes during her time as councillor.
“He kept me busy because he had tenacity, and because of his passion for the community, he went above and beyond to get the job done,” she said.
“He drove us crazy, but who could not love Howard? He was so intelligent, and I’ve learnt so much through him and his tenacity, which made us, as councillors, listen and follow through with his vision for housing.
“That’s why houses will be built at the Crestway housing development. He was the main role player,” said Ms Petersen. “He left a legacy that’s unmatched.”
Dorothy Soetwater said her brother had not been much of a family man because his heart had always been with the community.
“He was at the forefront whenever anything happened in Lavender Hill, at protests or fighting for land for people to live,“ she said.
“He wanted justice, equality and fought for those who didn’t have a voice. He was a man with influence and was very knowledgeable about the constitution and legislation, and that’s why he was able to be vocal about the things he stood for.”
Ms Soetwater said her brother had had a heart for people and had worked tirelessly without compensation.
“I told him maybe it’s time for other people to take over the fight, but he told me he would not rest until he sees that beneficiaries get their homes at Crestway.“
Lavender Hill activist Lucinda Evans said a giant tree had fallen in Lavender Hill as Mr Soetwater had been well known in revolutionary circles in his fight for human rights and access to housing.
“He was smart and insightful with a perfect heartbeat for the community, irrespective of his imperfections. He was also feared. He had knowledge, consciousness and was a passionate leader. He knew the legislation of housing policies, and he had no problem taking issues to the high court and returning successfully.”
