Soup kitchen patrons across eThekwini have called for improved conditions and more respectful treatment, raising serious concerns about the state of several municipal-run feeding schemes.
The concerns emerged following revisit inspections conducted on Tuesday, 14 April, where patrons described conditions at some sites as “dire” and degrading.
Several patrons, who requested anonymity, said they were unhappy with how food distribution is being handled by some volunteers. Allegations include unfair distribution practices, with claims that certain individuals are favoured while others receive smaller portions or are overlooked entirely.
“There are people who get more, while others are left with very little,” said one patron. Others added that newcomers are often treated poorly, creating tension within already vulnerable communities.
Concerns were also raised about the nutritional value of the meals, particularly for young people who rely on these feeding schemes. Patrons highlighted the importance of proper nutrition for youth development and schooling, saying the current offerings fall short.
More serious allegations were also made, with some patrons claiming that certain volunteers may be withholding food items for personal use. Some reported witnessing volunteers loading crates of bread into private vehicles.
In January, Ward 110 PR Councillor Rowena Bosman and Ward 54 PR Councillor Vassie Govender invited Tabloid Newspapers to accompany them on oversight visits to several eThekwini Municipality-run soup kitchens. During those inspections, serious concerns were raised about unhygienic conditions, including inadequate ablution facilities at some sites.
Bosman said the latest visits were conducted to assess whether improvements had been made.
“Patrons reached out to us to highlight the terrible state of ablutions, as well as the proximity to containers from which the food is being served. While they may be receiving a meal, the conditions are dire and there hasn’t been any improvement since our last visits,” she said.
She added that while the meals are free, many patrons feel they lack sufficient nutritional value.
“Some patrons feel they have no choice but to accept what is available and are afraid that raising concerns could lead to these soup kitchens being shut down. It is deeply concerning that people feel so desperate and vulnerable that they must simply take their chances,” Bosman added.
Volunteers at the affected sites declined to comment.
The situation has raised broader concerns about accountability, dignity, and the quality of essential services provided to vulnerable communities across eThekwini.
