By Zandile Nyathikazi
Nora Shezi, an 81-year-old woman who lives alone in Inanda, Congo says she lives in fear as her dilapidated home, which was once a place of hope, has become a symbol of her struggles and resilience.
Three years after devastating floods tore through KwaZulu-Natal, Nora Shezi is still waiting for the new house she was promised.
Her RDP house in Inanda was severely damaged during the April 2022 floods and despite assurance from authorities, a replacement house is yet to be built.
The 81-year-old said life is hard as she is frail and feels unsafe. With her roof damaged and her home vulnerable, she has fallen victim to muggings and break-ins.
“I lost everything during the floods and now I live in fear everyday. People can see the condition of my house and they target me,” she said.
The April 2022 floods left thousands displaced and hundreds of houses destroyed across KwaZulu-Natal and the eThekwini region was one of the most affected.
At the time, government officials promised relief, including temporary shelters and to rebuild damaged homes. However, progress has been painfully slow, leaving many residents like Shezi in limbo.
Ward councillor Siyabonga Mfeka acknowledged the delays, citing financial constraints.
“We are still waiting for the funds to build new houses. These things take time, but we are pushing the government to release resources so that people like MaShezi can finally get proper shelter.”
Community members have also raised concerns that elderly residents who were affected by the floods are being neglected.
Neighbours said they often step in to assist Shezi with food and household needs, but they worry about her safety as she continues to live in a dilapidated home.
Philisiwe Ndlela who is a neighbour said it is sad to see an elderly woman suffering like this.
“It’s sad because she is not getting any help from the government and she’s suffered several break-ins as her house is in a dilapidated condition,” Ndlela said.
For Shezi, the wait has become a heavy burden.
“I just want to feel safe again. It’s been too long,” cried Shezi.
