Durban disability centre found in disrepair after years of neglect

Government inspectors have discovered that the Enduduzweni Centre for Disabled individuals in Umlazi is in a dire state of disrepair. Representatives from the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature’s Public Works Portfolio Committee, along with officials from the eThekwini Municipality, visited the centre on Tuesday to assess the situation. Chairperson Petros Msimango stated that the once thriving community hub, which has been serving those with disabilities since the early 1990s, is now on the verge of collapse.

Vandals have looted the facility, stealing water pipes, light bulbs, doors, and electricity cables, leaving it in a state of chaos. The centre's residents are desperately in need of assistance. During their tour, the committee observed collapsed roofs, empty rooms, overgrown lawns, and missing windows, alongside intermittent water and electricity supply.

The center has been housing around 30 residents since 2001, including those with mobility challenges and visual impairments. They previously engaged in craft activities such as knitting jerseys and scarves and weaving plastic doormats, but these activities ceased several years ago. A former Social Development MEC, Weziwe Thusi, had previously announced plans to close the center in 2017, prompting a standoff between the residents and government officials.

The Department of Social Development and eThekwini officials have been contacted to address these concerns.