By Celani Sikhakhane
The Sigudu family from Hammarsdale, west of Durban, received a new house on Mandela Day after nearly three years of living in a community hall with 30 other families.
“I had lost hope that one day my life would be restored with my family after those floods left us with nothing,” said Gogo Duduzile Sigudu.
“Today, my prayers have been answered and I hope other families like mine will also get their own houses soon.”
Gogo Sigudu was moved to tears when eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba handed over the house.
The United Nations officially declared Nelson Mandela Day in 2009 in honour of South Africa’s first black president and leader of its first democratic government.
Many families in Durban townships still face hardships after the floods, which left them without homes and essential services.
Some families have never recovered the remains of loved ones lost to the floods.
Nelson Mandela Day was also celebrated at Ohlange High School in Inanda, where Mandela cast his vote in South Africa’s first democratic elections in April 1994.
A delegation from the United States planted trees and participated in activities with the pupils.
KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Public Works, Martin Meyer, visited several areas, including schools, where he helped cut grass and fix infrastructure.
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal gathered in kwaMakhutha township to remember Mandela, who was elected to lead the organisation at the Westville elective conference after the unbanning of political prisoners and leaders.
On Mandela Day, 67 minutes directly connects to Nelson Mandela’s selfless life. It stands for the 67 years he devoted to serving the public in the struggle against apartheid and for racial equality.
Pictured above: Gogo Duduzile Sigudu was so happy to finally receive her new house after the April 2022 floods.
Source: Supplied
