Families in the Copesville in Pietermaritzburg, whose homes were severely damaged by storms just before Christmas, say they have been left without aid or temporary accommodation as they attempt to rebuild.
The damage in Copesville is part of a broader wave of destruction across the province over the past two weeks, where hundreds of homes have been affected by strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rains. In Copesville alone, more than ten homes were damaged.
A news crew visiting the area found residents struggling to pick up the pieces. The family of Ntando Manta allowed cameras into their home to reveal the extent of the damage. Debris and mixed cement littered the floor, and a large section of a wall had completely collapsed, with a window frame now precariously filling the gap.
Ntando Manta explained that the family had endured a “somber festive season,” spending Christmas in a “displeasing environment” after watching their home be destroyed. She expressed frustration at the lack of assistance, stating she had been “knocking on doors” and speaking to various authorities but had received no help.
The situation is compounded by what appears to be a breakdown in communication with local officials. When contacted, a local councilor stated he was not aware and had not been informed of the damaged houses in Copesville—a claim that has left residents questioning the local government’s awareness of their plight.
The reporter on the ground noted that while over ten houses were damaged in this immediate area, the provincial tally from the severe weather just before Christmas exceeds 400 damaged homes. Despite the scale of the disaster, no temporary accommodation has been provided for the affected Copesville families.
With the focus now shifting to the provincial Department of Human Settlements, residents are left waiting to see what form of assistance will be brought to the table to help them get their lives back on track. For many in Copesville, the new year has begun under the shadow of a somber and disillusioning festive season, with their requests for help remaining unmet.