Businesses in Umbilo have raised concerns about the growing number of people living in makeshift shelters along Che Guevara Road, warning that the situation is affecting trade and could drive businesses out of the area.
Ward 32 councillor Protus Mgonyama says the issue is complex, but efforts are under way to find a solution in cooperation with relevant authorities.
Mgonyama said he was concerned that businesses could relocate if the situation is not addressed.
“It's worrying me as the councillor of the area that businesses are going to move out from this area if we don't attend to that thing,” he said.
The councillor was responding to concerns from the Umbilo Business Association about the impact of homelessness and the growing number of people camping along the road.
Businesses claim more than 100 people are currently living in the area, with some reporting a decline in customers. Two businesses are also reportedly facing the possibility of closure.
According to Mgonyama, some of the people living at the site claim they were forced to leave their homes. He said some are originally from areas including Chesterville and Mayville.
The councillor also warned that the situation could develop into a public health concern.
“As the city, we are trying by all means to intervene there. Also, we are waiting for the minister's office of Home Affairs to give us an update [on] what can be done about those people,” Mgonyama said.
He described the situation as complicated and said he had received several complaints from businesses operating along Che Guevara Road.
“But the issue of those people is going to be addressed. The City did engage them several times, so it's difficult,” he said.
Umbilo Business Association representative Ian Campbell-Gillies said the situation was having a significant impact on businesses, with some customers reportedly reluctant to visit the area.
He highlighted several businesses that have been affected, including Dube Safety Wear, Battery Centre and Hi-Q Tyre and Exhaust.
Campbell-Gillies said tents and groups of people have also affected access to some businesses, while students living in accommodation nearby have raised concerns about conditions in the area.
“There is a significant impact and obviously, you know, the difficulties of people urinating against the business walls,” he said.
The business association is calling for the situation to be addressed, citing concerns about customer safety, access to businesses, public health and the broader impact on the local economy.
Mgonyama said the eThekwini Municipality is engaging with the relevant authorities, including the Department of Home Affairs, as efforts continue to find a way forward.