After heavy rains rendered key routes in Ward 21 impassable, Msinga councillor Xolani Mkhize – along with farmer Hennie Strydom, lodge owner Douglas Rattray and members of the Rorke’s Drift community – sprang into action to restore access for residents, tourists and emergency services.
Flooding and severe road damage had given rise to serious concerns, with reports of vehicles being affected and travellers unable to navigate the affected areas. The routes lead to the Anglo-Zulu War sites of Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana, and are also popular with tourists.
With time of the essence, local farmers and community members joined forces to begin immediate repairs to ensure that isolated areas could once again be reached.
“The P190, Dundee to Rorke’s Drift, passing through Shiyane Mission, is in an absolute state! We have been begging the Department of Transport for about three months to assist. The bridges are unsafe, and there are huge gullies across the roads,” Rattray exclaimed.
Ward Councillor Mkhize expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the farmers and residents for their swift and selfless response.
“It was truly inspiring to see the community come together in a time of need,” he said.
In a welcome development, the Department of Transport has committed to assisting with further repairs and ongoing maintenance of the damaged roads and entrances in the Rorke’s Drift area.
Their involvement is expected to bolster the community’s efforts and ensure long-term accessibility.
