Eeufees Retirement Village residents struggle ongoing nightmare

What was once considered a paradise, for many has turned into a daily nightmare for residents of Eeufees Retirement Village. Despite a previous report in the Northcliff Melville Times highlighting similar issues back in February 2023, the problems persist as the community grapples with deteriorating living conditions in 2025.

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Resident Daphne Smith expressed her frustration, stating that the lack of streetlights has left the village in darkness, making it unsafe for residents. “It is pitch dark, and we have people knocking on our windows at all hours,” she said. Smith recounted a recent incident where her car tires were stolen in the middle of the night, emphasising the growing sense of insecurity among residents. “People are knocking on our windows at 02:00 or 03:00 in the morning,” she added.

The issues extend beyond safety concerns, as Smith pointed out that essential services are failing. “Running water has not been fixed, and there are many problems in the village that we need to sort out.” The situation has left residents feeling vulnerable and disheartened, as they had hoped to enjoy a peaceful retirement in a safe environment.

Aubrey Crowder, another resident, echoed Smith’s words, expressing feelings of neglect and frustration. “It is a sad reflection on the Department of Housing due to a lack of empathy,” he stated. “It is not a good situation, and it is getting progressively worse. At one stage, we thought that we were going somewhere, but unfortunately, nothing has transpired.”

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Ward 69 councillor Genevieve Sherman acknowledged the dire state of retirement homes, including Eeufees, attributing the issues to a lack of maintenance and insufficient budget allocation. “The city is in a mess, and the list of problems is endless,” she said. “It’s a horror, and we try our best, but, as councillors, we can only do so much.” She also highlighted the challenges posed by illegal occupants, stating that they have lease agreements that are not being honoured.

With the same issues persisting after two years, residents continue to face these ongoing challenges. They’re left hoping for urgent action and support to restore their once-beloved home to a safe and secure environment.

Sibonelo Mtshali, communications manager in the office of the MMC for Human Settlements, stated that they will conduct an oversight visit at Eeufees Oord Retirement Village to witness the residents’ living conditions.

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