A vandalised sports facility in Shaka’s Head has become a haven for criminals burning cables for copper, sparking safety and health concerns among residents.

The old changing rooms at the local sports field, once intended to support youth development and sport, now stand abandoned.

Smoke from burning scrap metal frequently drifts across nearby homes and the Ithemba Labasha Crèche, where close to 100 children attend daily. Parents say the toxic fumes are endangering the children’s health and describe the air quality as “unbearable” on some days.

One resident, Busisiwe Makhathini, who operates the Sakhisizwe Warriors Foundation from a container next to the field, said the situation had “spiralled out of control.”

“This change room has become a pain to us as residents. The fence is broken, the ground is unsafe and children who come to play here can easily wander onto the railway line. Who knows what dangers lurk in the bushes near the tracks? We even caught people digging sand from the field,” she said.

She believes the facility could once again serve the community if properly secured and refurbished.

“It has the potential to be a safe and thriving space for sport. But until then, it is a source of fear and frustration.”

Several residents confirmed that the issue has been reported to local committees and the ward councillor. However, they say no concrete action has been taken to date.

Shaka’s Head Ward 4 councillor Jetro Banda said he was aware of the issue and that it had been reported.

“The delay is on the municipality’s side. Since 2022 there has been an investor who wants to fences the whole area and renovate it,” said Banda.

“I don’t know what’s stopping the municipality from approving it.”

KwaDukuza municipality spokesperson Sifiso Zulu said the municipality is aware of the ongoing vandalism in Shaka’s Head and other areas, which undermines community development and public amenities.

He said the municipality has launched education and awareness campaigns to promote community ownership of public assets and is building caretaker houses at key facilities to improve security and maintenance.

Zulu confirmed that a non-profit entity, the Community Development Trust, approached the municipality with plans to upgrade municipal property in Ward 4. The Trust, known for its corporate social investment projects such as classroom and computer lab construction, previously worked in KwaDukuza.

“The proposal was considered by the municipal council and approved in principle, thereby authorising the administration to proceed with all requisite legislative processes governing such transactions, including public participation and land use compliance,” said Zulu.

He further stated the proposed investment focuses on municipal-owned land, and it is critical to note that making land available for development does not constitute a transfer of ownership or a relinquishing of municipal control. Rather, it provides an enabling environment for private investment in community infrastructure.

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