HOPE FOR KWAMASHU OLD AGE HOME RESIDENTS AFTER BOARD SUSPENSION

By Trevor Khuzwayo

• For years the elderly residents of the KwaMashu Christian Care Society old age home endured deteriorating living conditions, including days without proper food.
• Following a forensic audit by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development, the board of the old age home has been suspended – much to the relief of the residents.
• The department found unaccounted expenditure of over R4.6-million.

Elderly residents at the KwaMashu Christian Care Society old age home have expressed relief and renewed hope following the suspension of the board over financial mismanagement.

For years, they endured deteriorating living conditions, lack of essential supplies, and delayed services, despite the home receiving government funding.

A forensic investigation by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development uncovered unaccounted expenditure of over R4.6-million.

Residents believe that with the board now disbanded, more resources will finally reach them, improving their quality of life.

One of the residents, 78-year-old Gogo Thandi Dlamini*, shared her struggles: “There were days we would go without proper food, and the nurses had to do their best with what little they had. When we asked about our grants or donations, no one could give us a straight answer. It felt like we were forgotten.”

She recalled how basic necessities, such as adult diapers and chronic medication, were often in short supply. “Some of us don’t have families to check on us. This place is our only home. But when the money meant for us disappears, we are left helpless,” she said with tears in her eyes.

Resident Baba Joseph Khumalo* (82) echoed her sentiments: “We just want to live our last years in peace, with dignity. If the money is properly used, this home can be a place of comfort, not struggle.”

Addressing the residents and staff at the home, KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga assured them that change was coming.

“This home was meant to be a place of care, not corruption. The money meant for our elders must be used for their well-being, and we will ensure that happens,” she stated.

The department would be taking immediate steps to stabilise the situation, she added. “We will appoint an interim management team to oversee finances, ensure salaries are paid correctly, and that every elderly person here receives the care they deserve. Those responsible for this mismanagement will be held accountable.”

Shinga also encouraged residents and staff to report any further concerns. “We are listening, and we will act. This is about restoring dignity to our elders, who have given so much to society.”

With government intervention underway, residents can now look forward to tangible improvements, including better meals, proper healthcare, and a safer environment. For the elderly at KwaMashu Christian Care Society, the removal of the board marks the beginning of a hopeful new chapter.

*names have been changed