On January 12, 2026, taxi drivers rallied along the Uitval–Ladysmith road in northern KwaZulu-Natal, voicing their frustration over perilous potholes and deteriorating road conditions. This protest not only disrupted traffic but also brought to light the pressing need for repairs and accountability from local authorities.
Video footage circulating on social media, shared by journalist Sihle Mavuso, showcased taxis blocking the road, resulting in significant traffic delays as commuters scrambled for alternative routes. Seems like the drivers are putting their foot down on safety!
Why the Outcry?
The daily reliance on the Uitval–Ladysmith road by taxi drivers has made the deteriorating infrastructure a serious safety concern. They are demanding immediate action from provincial authorities to address the hazardous conditions before a tragedy occurs. So far, there has been no response regarding a timeline for repairs, leaving many in KwaZulu-Natal apprehensive about road safety.
Hear from MEC Duma
KwaZulu-Natal's MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, has previously marked a commitment to a “war on potholes,” allocating R216 million in April 2025 to repair the province's roads. Speaking at a recent construction site, Duma has mobilized staff to expedite road repairs.
“With heavy rainfall, we are inundated with calls and requests from ordinary members of society. I have mandated our infrastructure team to speed up the maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, and resealing of our road networks across the province,” Duma explained.
Public Sentiment
Social media platforms have echoed the public's frustration regarding the slow pace of repairs and the quality of work being done. CodyCodesa Zwane succinctly put forth:
“Please update us on how many potholes have been fixed each day, as you did with those arrests.”
Matthew Ewart didn’t hold back, stating:
“We have been waiting over six years for our Weza Road in Harding to be fixed. Numerous deaths and economic damage have occurred along this short stretch. We need answers.”
Other commenters expressed the same discontent. Sandile Manqele suggested:
“Hire contractors who actually know how to repair potholes, not just someone with a membership card.”
Meanwhile, Muke Mtshali highlighted how road conditions affect everyday life:
“Start at Empangeni roads all the way up to Vryheid—the road is horrible. We can’t keep buying tyres!”
As frustrations mount, the narrative of safety and infrastructure maintenance in KwaZulu-Natal continues to unfold. Will the authorities take heed and act swiftly?
In an additional note, on October 25, 2025, MEC Duma warned truck owners of potential imprisonment if their vehicles are driven by illegal migrants or deemed unroadworthy. The initiative forms part of the #NenzaniLaEzweni campaign aimed at enhancing road safety, showcasing a zero-tolerance policy towards fraudulent drivers and unsafe trucks.
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