The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Human Settlements will hand over a new home to a grieving Durban family on Mandela Day, offering them a chance for closure after a tragic loss during the February 2025 floods.



The family, who lost their matriarch, Zondeni Gcabashe, when she was swept away by raging floodwaters, has been in mourning. Of the five people lost in the disaster, Gcabashe’s body remains unrecovered, adding to the family’s pain. They were among the flood victims who were evicted from Bayside Lodge earlier in the week, leaving them temporarily without shelter before being moved to safer accommodation in Umbilo.



KwaZulu-Natal Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma confirmed the family would receive a house on Mandela Day. According to Duma, while many flood survivors were impacted by previous events such as the 2022 disaster, this specific family—affected by the more recent 2025 floods—was selected due to their unique circumstances. He explained that the gesture would assist them in performing traditional rituals and aid their emotional recovery.



Duma noted that the family had been informed of the decision and had responded positively to the news.



Gcabashe’s daughter, Ntombikhona Mhlongo, described the emotional toll of her mother’s disappearance, stating that she had been crying daily and desperately seeking answers. She welcomed the news of the new house, saying it would allow the family to continue their mother’s spiritual rites in a more appropriate space. Mhlongo shared that, traditionally, they believe her mother’s spirit may not rest until a permanent home is found.



She expressed appreciation for the coordinated efforts of the national, provincial, and local government authorities following their recent eviction, and said their temporary home in Umbilo was comfortable and peaceful.



Duma also visited other flood survivors now housed in Umbilo and said that most residents were satisfied with their improved living conditions. He reported that they felt safe and supported.



Meanwhile, Human Settlements head of department Max Mbili said that all three spheres of government are now working closely to ensure no further evictions occur from temporary shelters. He added that internal systems are being put in place to prevent a repeat of the recent displacements, and that current residents will remain housed until a long-term housing solution is secured.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC Martin Meyer has opened a police case after a bullet was discovered at his office. The incident has raised concerns about safety and security in the region.



According to Meyer, the bullet was found in his office, prompting immediate action to ensure the safety of his staff and the public. He expressed his shock at the discovery, emphasizing that such incidents are unacceptable and must be addressed seriously. Meyer stated that he is committed to cooperating fully with law enforcement to investigate the matter thoroughly.



The MEC highlighted the importance of creating a safe working environment for all public servants. According to him, the incident underscores the need for enhanced security measures within government offices to protect employees from potential threats.



Meyer also called for a collective effort to combat violence and intimidation in the political landscape. He noted that public officials should not have to fear for their safety while performing their duties. The MEC expressed hope that the investigation would lead to the identification of those responsible for this alarming act.



In conclusion, the discovery of a bullet in Martin Meyer’s office has prompted a police investigation, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding safety for public officials in KwaZulu-Natal. According to Meyer, it is crucial to ensure a secure environment for all employees and to address the broader issues of violence and intimidation in politics.

Ward 60 Councillor Fakazi Mdletshe during a site visit to the Redcliffe Housing Project to inspect progress made thus far. The R84 million housing project will change the lives of 600 families once it is complete. Picture: THEMBA KHUMALO

WORK to build more than 600 houses in Ward 60 has begun. The R84 million Redcliff Housing Project began last month following the introduction of the contractor to the community by Ward 60 Councillor Fakazi Mdletshe. He said following the introduction of the contractor, the infrastructure for services including water, sanitation and electricity was being implemented before construction started.

Councillor Mdletshe said the project will also bring the development of roads, passages, infrastructure upgrades and other developments. “Several people will also benefit from short-term employment. We also have many local companies who will be subcontracting in various stages of the project.”

The closure of the Newcastle furnace will result in the loss of over 1 300 direct jobs, with an estimated 2 200 indirect jobs at risk in the surrounding communities. This will exacerbate the already dire unemployment situation in South Africa, particularly in the rural areas where job opportunities are scarce. The economic spin-offs of the closure will be felt far and wide, with local businesses, suppliers, and service providers also facing financial ruin.


Play Video

The steel industry is a critical component of South Africa's economy, and the closure of the Newcastle furnace will have a ripple effect throughout the sector. The motor manufacturing industry, which relies heavily on locally produced steel, will be severely impacted, threatening the very existence of this critical sector. The consequences of this closure will be felt for generations to come, as the skills and expertise developed over decades are lost forever.

The threatened closure of Amsa’s Newcastle Furnace repeats a similar crisis when Amsa did likewise with its Saldanha Bay operations five years ago. Amsa’s possible exit would have similar catastrophic effects for its plants in Richard’s Bay and Vereeniging.

With a 41.09% unemployment rate, GDP growth barely breaking 1% and years of devastating de-industrialisation; this would be a blow we simply cannot afford.