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Residents of Mowa Location, Ward 16 in Ntabankulu are calling for urgent government intervention after years of struggling with unsafe access roads and a damaged bridge. Community member Anathi Ncobo shared a detailed public plea, saying the situation has placed lives at risk for more than 15 years.
Ncobo says the community has repeatedly asked the Ntabankulu Municipality to repair the road and rebuild the washed-away bridge. However, residents claim they are told there is no budget, despite raising the issue for over a decade.
Residents Walk 20km Daily Due to Lack of Transport
The damaged road means taxis and buses cannot reach Mowa Location. As a result, people walk more than 20 kilometres to access schools, clinics, and shops. When it rains, water levels rise, and many residents sleep outside because they cannot cross.
The bridge, built around 2017–2018, was washed away by heavy rains and has not been repaired since. According to residents, the last proper road maintenance took place in 1998.
Funerals have also been affected. Mourners often carry coffins by hand because no vehicle can access the area.
Community Claims Unequal Service Delivery
Ncobo says the community members fear speaking out because those who question service delivery allegedly face intimidation. She claims other wards receive projects and support, while Mowa’s concerns go unanswered.
Electricity is another major issue. Ncobo says residents are told to “pay because they can afford it,” even though electricity connections should be provided through formal municipal processes. She personally paid over R12,000 for installation.
Residents Question Leadership and Appeal for Help
The community says ward committees are dysfunctional and that public meetings cannot be held due to safety concerns. Ncobo says she is willing to assist with transport so residents can stage a legal march, adding that peaceful protest may be the only remaining route.
“Where do we go? Who do we speak to? What must we say?” she asked in her appeal, adding that she is ready to fight for her community despite the risks.
She also stated that she is willing to take officials or stakeholders to the site so they can witness the conditions themselves.
