Residents suffer once more as heavy downpours hit Benoni

Residents of several informal settlements in Benoni have once again been severely affected by heavy rains that have persisted since February 16.

The continuous downpours have left many families stranded as floodwaters swept through their homes, damaging their belongings.

The South African Weather Service has issued an Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive rainfall and flooding, affecting Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, and the Free State.

Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) media liaison William Ntladi said that since the persistent rains began, they have not responded to any flood-related incidents in the Benoni area.

The Benoni City Times visited the Harry Gwala informal settlement in Wattville on February 19 and found muddy streets and impassable paths, leaving vehicles stuck and restricting movement around the settlement.

One affected resident, Dintswalo Mthembu (45) who was found sweeping water out of her shack, said: “The rain wasn’t too bad on Monday, but by Wednesday it worsened. Everything inside is wet, my beds, furniture, and essential items are completely soaked.”

Community leader Albert Skosana expressed frustration, saying it is heart-breaking to see people still living in such harsh conditions despite 30 years of democracy.

“These residents are the beneficiaries of a housing development that has remained stagnant in Wattville due to alleged misused funds. The project, which began seven years ago, should have been completed by now, yet it remains at a standstill, leaving people to suffer the consequences.”

He added that politicians often promise a better life during election periods, yet decades later, residents still live without proper housing, sanitation, facilities, electricity, or security.

While walking through the area, the newspaper came across a blocked sewer manhole near the Harry Gwala Hall.

Also Read: Harry Gwala residents still waiting to enjoy the fruits of democracy

Residents described how floodwaters mixed with raw sewage from the overflowing manhole, spill into their yards and homes. The contaminated water carried toilet paper and other waste, further exposing families to serious health risks.

“We are already struggling with flooding, and now we have to deal with sewage flowing into our homes. This manhole is always blocked, and nothing meaningful is being done to fix the problem,” said one frustrated resident.

Ward 30 Clr Kenny Ranyawa said he was unaware of the spillage in the area as he had not received any report.

However, he stated that he would personally visit the site, assess the situation, and report the matter.

Regarding the stagnant housing development, Ranyawa said he had escalated the issue to the provincial authorities to resolve it and ensure the project is completed.

“A site visit was scheduled to take place on February 20 with the MEC for Human Settlements in Gauteng. However, it was postponed,” said Ranyawa.

*See below some of the pictures taken in Benoni.

Also Read: Harry Gwala housing project launched in Wattville