Scores of Durban families to spend Christmas on the streets after landlord evicted them

A large number of families in Musgrave in Durban have been left stranded outside a residential building after being evicted by their landlord.

According to reports, the Durban landlord forcefully threw them out two days ago, despite occupying the building for approximately two years.

Enca Senior reporter Dasen Thathiah was present at the scene and spoke to the local ward councillor to gain further insight into this distressing situation.

DESPERATION GROWS IN DURBAN

The local ward councillor, John Smith, expressed his concern over the eviction and the larger problem it signifies.

He stated, “This eviction is a clear indication of the housing crisis we are facing in Musgrave. It is unacceptable that families are being left homeless due to the lack of affordable housing options.”

Smith further emphasized the need for government intervention, saying, “The municipality needs to prioritize the provision of affordable housing to prevent vulnerable families from resorting to occupying buildings illegally. We cannot continue to ignore the plight of these families and must act swiftly to address this issue.”

Speaking to some of the affected families, Thathiah uncovered stories of desperation and despair.

BLEAK CHRISTMAS FOR FAMILIES IN DURBAN

One resident, Sarah Johnson, tearfully shared, “We had no choice but to occupy this building. We couldn’t afford the high rents in the area, and there were no other options available to us. We might spend Christmas sleeping on the streets.”

Another resident, David Mbeki, expressed his frustration, saying, “We were living peacefully in this building for two years, and now we are left with nothing. The landlord didn’t even give us any notice or offer alternative accommodation.”

This eviction sheds light on the larger issue of illegal land sales in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

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