EMALAHLENI – The relentless downpour that began on Sunday evening, April 7, has wreaked havoc in Lynnville, Emalahleni, leaving 76-year-old Gogo Velaphi Mazibuko without a roof over her head.
The storm, which struck on Monday evening, mercilessly battered Gogo’s home in Kalkspruit, causing extensive damage and allowing water to seep inside the residence and flood the surrounding yard.
Situated on Luthuli Street with a stream running directly behind it, Gogo’s home has long been at risk due to erosion caused by the persistent flow of water near the property.
“It was during Monday evening when I heard the other rooms inside the house cracking, and then water started entering,” she said. “No one was injured, only the furniture suffered damage as water seeped in and the walls collapsed. I am in deep pain because I now feel homeless since the house is leaking,” she explained.
“I have reported this issue of having my home close to water stream courses, but the Emalahleni Local Municipality has yet to address it,” she said.
Municipality officials visited her home to assess the situation but never returned with a tangible solution.
“The municipality informed me that they don’t have the funds to assist with this situation. I fear for my life because at any moment, this house could collapse on me.”
“I pray that anyone willing to assist will help me rebuild my home before the rain returns.”
The publication attempted to get a comment from the municipality but was unsuccessful.
