In a poignant tribute to Nelson Mandela Day, the family of the late Zondeni Gcabashe (60), who was swept away during the devastating floods in February, received the keys to a newly built home — offering a sense of closure, dignity, and hope after months of grief and displacement.
Mrs Gcabashe’s remains are still missing, and her family was among those evicted from emergency accommodation at the Bayside Hotel in Durban in recent weeks. Despite enduring profound loss and instability, they are now beginning a new chapter in a safer and more secure environment.
The home was officially handed over by KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, who was joined by Councillor Sfiso Mkhize, Deputy Chairperson of the Human Settlements and Infrastructure Committee in eThekwini Municipality.
The house, located in Illovo, Ward 109, is ideally situated near schools, clinics, a community hall, recreational facilities, and a main road — ensuring access to essential services and support.
In honour of Mandela Day, MEC Duma also spent 67 minutes on-site, inspecting and participating in the construction of 30 additional homes that are currently being built for other flood victims.
The day’s ceremony included a heartfelt prayer and blessing from the department’s chaplain, Apostle Vivo Mpungose, who called for divine protection over the Gcabashe family and healing for all those affected by the floods.
“This is not just a house — it is a symbol of compassion, resilience, and government’s commitment to restoring the dignity of families who have suffered unimaginable loss,” said MEC Duma.
As the housing project continues, more families who have endured the trauma of natural disasters can look forward to rebuilding their lives in safe and dignified homes.
