WARD 97 councillor and eThekwini Municipality executive committee member André Beetge has said that while the City’s recent intervention aimed at clearing homeless people from key areas is noble, the approach raises serious questions, both for affected communities and for the homeless themselves.

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When the issue was first raised with the City, the Sakhithemba Homeless Shelter in Lower Illovo was presented as a primary solution. However, Beetge said the shelter has become a major point of contention for residents, many of whom are opposed to the relocation of homeless people to the area. Despite this, Beetge said the facility was repeatedly portrayed as a near-complete solution to homelessness. In reality, Sakhithemba can accommodate only about 1000 people, compared to an estimated homeless population of roughly 20 000 across eThekwini.

“At best, Sakhithemba can only serve a fraction of the need. While it may form part of the City’s plan, it is clearly not the solution,” said Beetge.

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Concerns have also been raised about the lack of ongoing engagement with affected communities. eThekwini Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni previously committed to continuous consultations with residents regarding the shelter and broader homelessness plans. However, only one community meeting was held in July 2025.

Beetge stressed that homelessness is not a new challenge and that the City already employs an entire department tasked with addressing it. He said the focus should shift away from temporary measures and isolated facilities, towards a dignified, city-wide response.

This includes identifying suitable land across the municipality for occupation, formalising existing informal settlements, installing infrastructure and delivering basic services. He also called for buildings donated to the City by the provincial government to be renovated into housing, and for abandoned and slum buildings to be expropriated and rehabilitated.

“The time for smoke and mirrors has come to an end. Ratepayers deserve accountability, communities deserve to be heard, and the homeless deserve real, lasting solutions, not promises that disappear after one meeting,” he said.

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