Residents of Philippi’s Kosovo shanty town whose homes have been swamped by more than a week of heavy rains say they feel abandoned by the government.
When Vukani visited the settlement this week we found residents wading through deluged streets, carrying bedding and other belongings as they sought shelter from friends and relatives on higher ground.
Community leader Bulelani Mlungisi said not one government official had so far visited the area.
People had lost furniture, blankets, groceries and more in the flood-prone area, he said.
"We are asking for any help that we can get. We have not received any help from the government, and yet we just voted.
“We feel like we are not part of South Africa; we feel like foreigners in our own country. We feel that the government does not give a damn about us.”
Thembeka Thuswa said she had been living in area since 1999. She has to wear gumboots when venturing out, and she said some of her neighbours had left to rent elsewhere until the water is cleared.
The living conditions in the area were inhumane and a health hazard, especially for children and the elderly, she said.
She said she had lost faith in the government.
Bonisani Bhozo said it was cold inside the settlement’s shacks due to the flooding.
He said it felt like the government did not know the community existed, and if he had the money, he would have left years ago to find a better place to stay.