Durban, 18 September 2026 – KZN COGTA MEC Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has commended the Mdletshe family in Tshelimnyama, west of Durban, for taking swift and proactive action that prevented a potential loss of life following mudslides caused by prolonged heavy rainfall.
Mr Mduduzi Mdletshe realised that the condition of his family home had become unsafe and immediately evacuated his seven family members. A few hours later, a mudslide occurred, destroying the house.
While the Mdletshe family escaped unharmed, three vehicles belonging to families living in neighbouring properties were also swept away by the mudslide.
MEC Buthelezi has expressed his sympathy to the Mdletshe, Latha and Khwela families, who have suffered property and vehicle losses as a result of the incident. Disaster response teams have been deployed to assist the affected families with relief and safe shelter.
MEC Buthelezi has urged communities in areas affected by the heavy rains to remain vigilant and to evacuate immediately if their homes or surrounding areas become unsafe.
“Mr Mdletshe’s decision to act before it was too late demonstrates the importance of taking warnings and visible signs of danger seriously. No property is worth risking a life. We urge communities to remain vigilant and to seek assistance from the relevant authorities when they identify conditions that may pose a threat to their safety,” said MEC Buthelezi.
