In a significant step towards recovery, Human Settlements Minister Thembi Nkadimeng on Wednesday handed over more than 200 permanent houses to families who were displaced by the devastating 2022 KwaZulu-Natal floods.
The catastrophic torrential rains and landslides, which claimed more than 400 lives and left thousands homeless, destroyed entire communities two years ago. The handover ceremony in Copesville, Pietermaritzburg, marked a crucial milestone for beneficiaries who have been living in temporary residential units (TRUs) since the disaster.
However, the event also cast a spotlight on the protracted and complex challenges facing the government’s rebuilding efforts, primarily community opposition to relocating displaced families.
A reporter on the ground noted that while some families had recently received TRUs as an interim measure, the move into permanent homes in Copesville represented the final step for a fortunate group. The joy was palpable among the new homeowners, many of whom had lost everything.
Yet, this progress is set against a backdrop of significant hurdles. Minister Nkadimeng and local reporters detailed a persistent “not in my backyard” sentiment from existing communities where land has been identified for relocating flood victims.
In areas like Shallcross and Montclair, residents have reportedly rejected the integration of displaced families, citing pre-existing service delivery issues and fears of rising crime, demanding stringent vetting processes. This community resistance has severely delayed the government’s response.
Minister Nkadimeng acknowledged the delays, stating the pace of relocation is “informed by the fiscus and the difficulties that we have.” She highlighted that financial constraints are only part of the problem, with social integration being a major barrier.
“I went there. The local said, ‘Minister, not in our backyard. We don’t want these people,’” Nkadimeng recounted, referring to a specific failed relocation attempt. She explained that convincing both displaced families, who are deeply connected to their original homes, and wary host communities is a time-consuming process.
Despite these challenges, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to pressing ahead. “We are going to continue to provide interventions despite the number of challenges that is faced by the government,” she stated.
The handover in the uMgungundlovu Local Municipality brings the total number of disaster response homes delivered there to 246. However, with many victims still housed in temporary shelters, the path to full recovery remains long, hampered by both budgetary limits and the urgent need for greater social cohesion and community support.
