Digital nomads - the laptop-wielding new generation of remote workers - have found themselves at the sharp end of a debate in the South African city of Cape Town about whether or not they are good for the more permanent residents.
Supporters see the international influx as a financial boon and something to be encouraged, but their detractors are not so kind.
For 25-year-old South African social media content creator, Az’emahle Dyubeni, the city is facing a “digital nomad epidemic” that is pushing up housing and other costs.
Ms Dyubeni has lived in the beautiful coastal city all her life and says since Covid-19 the number of remote workers, mostly from the West, has increased substantially. Though no official figures exist, she is not alone in noticing a change.
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Ms Dyubeni says she is being priced out of the city where she has spent her entire life. She fears that she will never be able to afford to move out of her parents’ and live on her own like she had always hoped.
Just like in cities the world over, blame should be with the landlords and those that regulate them. And Airbnb.
It’s true. In theory having people come from abroad to spend money should be a boon to the local economy, but in practice mainly landlords will benefit unless there is equitable housing.
Can confirm. Prices of decent houses in Cape Town are fucking ridiculous, not even to mention the absurd prices for tiny flats.
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