The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) closed its eMaweleni W-Section office in Umlazi on 21 October 2026 after the Department of Labour issued a prohibition notice citing safety concerns. The closure affects grant applicants in the densely populated Umlazi area, who must now travel to neighbouring offices for assistance.
SASSA KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Mbizeni Mdlalose confirmed that the office shutdown was due to electricity faults and a leaking roof, not structural instability. He said, “Regarding whether the building was unstable, that was not a reason for closure of the office and the issues were around the issue of electricity and also leaking roof.” The office was described as undergoing renovations, with alternate accommodation being secured.
Before the closure, journalists reported long queues from 4am, water shortages, locked and unsafe toilets, and people being turned away. Faith Ngcobo, a child support grant applicant from Ngonyameni, recounted, “I arrived as early as 4am but have been turned away by midday.” These problems highlight persistent service delivery failures in the Umlazi SASSA branch.
To ease the impact on beneficiaries, Mdlalose advised residents to visit nearby SASSA offices in Chatsworth, Durban station, Wentworth, Lamontville, Nsimbini, and Umnini. “They must use the nearest local offices, around Umlazi, which is in Chatsworth, the Durban local office in Durban station, Wentworth and Lamontville, as well as Nsimbini and Umnini next to Umgababa,” he said.
The closure of this key SASSA facility in Umlazi raises concerns about access to vital social grants for vulnerable residents. Delays in accessing services can have serious impacts on households dependent on government support. The department is actively working to resolve the issues that led to the closure and secure suitable alternative premises.
Mdlalose stated, “We are working around the clock to address the issues that were elevated by the labour department. We are also at the advanced stage in securing the alternative office accommodation.” It remains unclear when the Umlazi office will reopen, with SASSA yet to provide a definite timeline.
At present, applicants must use neighbouring offices, which may increase travel time and costs. The community continues to await confirmation of when full services will resume at the Umlazi eMaweleni branch.