UPDATE: Calm as Machibini protesters disperse
Jozini protests came to an end this week after a successful meeting with the Machibini community and provincial government.
SERVICE delivery-related protests by the Machibini Community near Ubombo/Jozini turned violent this week, resulting in residents and visitors fearing for their lives.
KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Mike Mabuyakhulu addressed the protesters at a meeting attended by uMkhanyakude District Mayor Jeff Vilane, traditional leadership and COGTA officials.
Warning them against illegal water connections, Mabuyakhulu said Umgeni Water Board, brought in by COGTA after placing uMkhanyakude under administration, is currently installing water pipes and generators and fixing leaks.
Such work will create job opportunities for the Machibini community.
Meanwhile, water tankers are distributing water to affected areas but the 15 serving uMkhanyakude are insufficient to adequately cover the entire district. Mabuyakhulu will also notify the MEC for Human Settlement of the area’s housing shortage.
On Tuesday Major Thulani Zwane, KZN SAPS Spokesperson, confirmed the situation had been stabilised and police officers were monitoring workers clearing the roads.
However yesterday morning there were reports of the R22 to Sodwana Bay being blocked by the KwaNibela community protesting over water shortages.
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