With political parties negotiating a new administration in eThekwini, residents of Wentworth in the south of Durban are hoping their plight will finally be prioritised.
Residents say they have been forgotten for more than two decades as their housing conditions continue to deteriorate.
Many are living in municipal flats with crumbling walls, exposed electrical wiring, leaking roofs and broken plumbing.
Residents say years of neglect have left many living in unsafe and unhealthy conditions, with little help from the authorities.
Community activist Jennifer Slinger says they have repeatedly voted in the hope of better living conditions but continue to feel forgotten.
Residents say even previous attempts to refurbish the flats have failed to provide lasting relief.
Kelvin Kinsey says the municipality carried out renovations along Major Calvert Street in 2021, but the poor workmanship and materials used are now evident.
For other families, the problems extend to almost every part of their homes.
One resident, who requested anonymity for fear of victimisation, says the conditions are also affecting their children’s health.
With coalition negotiations under way, after none of the parties received an outright majority in the local government elections in eThekwini, residents say the housing crisis must feature among the priorities of the incoming administration.
They want more than promises, calling for urgent intervention to restore their homes and improve their living conditions.
Details in the report below:
-Report by Gcinokuhle Malinga