Human rights are moral principles or norms, which describe certain standards of human behaviour, and are regularly protected as legal rights in municipal and international law.
However, Bhekisisa Nxumalo, an outspoken disabled person from Sibongile, believes this noble principle has failed physically handicapped people like himself.
Despite having lifted himself up from being a shoe-shine polisher at the Shoprite Centre 20 years ago, to having studied communication and administration, and in the process earning 14 certificates of qualification, Bhekisisa cannot find a job.
He now survives on a Government SASSA grant that finds him waiting in anticipation come April 1 because of the current débâcle that has put at risk 17-million others who receive State grants.

He recalled three years ago when the Umzinyathi District Council built a house for him but was left puzzled when the ‘donation’ did not include a toilet or running water.

“I can’t get a job; no one is willing to help me as I did not want to be shamed. I also have a security certificate and I can work in a control room. I can also collect letters from the post office or any job that needs a sharp mind,” said Bhekisisa. He said that others like him, want Government institutions to implement the 2% employment ratio that was allocated to all disabled people.
Bhekisisa said human rights ‘only exist on paper’. He recalled three years ago when the Umzinyathi District Council built a house for him but was left puzzled when the ‘donation’ did not include a toilet or running water.
“I don’t want to live on hand-outs. I want a job so that I can maintain myself and my family. I am afraid to talk any more because some like to use me for their ‘humans rights’ work when it suits politicians, to do so,” Bhekisisa added. Should anyone wish to contact regarding him employment, call him on 076 181 9962.