uMlazi Gets State-of-the-Art School After Years of Delays

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24-03-2026
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Central News
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Learners, teachers, and parents in uMlazi are celebrating a major milestone as the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works unveiled the fully refurbished Menzi High School on Sunday, 22 March 2026, delivering a modern, multi-million rand facility that promises better education after more than a decade of frustrating delays caused by construction mafia interference and extortion threats.

The handover of Menzi High School, a historic institution built in the 1960s as the first high school in uMlazi, took place during Human Rights Month celebrations. The project, valued at R45.3 million, includes 23 new classrooms, science laboratories, computer rooms, a library, administration block, and upgraded sports facilities. It now stands as a safe, world-class environment for over 1 000 learners who have long endured overcrowded and outdated conditions.

Overcoming Years of Disruption and Extortion

The upgrade began in June 2022 with an original completion target of December 2024. However, the project faced repeated stoppages – at least six major incidents linked to extortion demands from construction mafia groups. Workers and officials were intimidated, held hostage on site in some cases, and forced to halt work for extended periods. These criminal disruptions escalated costs significantly, requiring additional funding from the education department to finish the job.

The construction mafia targeted infrastructure projects across KwaZulu-Natal, demanding protection fees and threatening violence if demands were not met. Menzi High School became one of the most public examples of how such criminality robs communities of essential services. Despite the setbacks, the department persisted with strong law enforcement support, site security measures, and political will to push through.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Public Works Martin Meyer described the completion as a significant victory over criminal elements. He noted that the province has now gone more than 13 months without a single project disruption due to mafia activity – a record achieved through coordinated action between government, police, and community leaders. Meyer praised the resilience of the school community, saying the new facility symbolises hope and a commitment to quality education for young people.

Modern Features to Boost Learning and Safety

The refurbished Menzi High School boasts state-of-the-art upgrades designed to meet modern educational needs. New classrooms feature better lighting, ventilation, and furniture, while specialised labs for science and technology will support practical learning. The library offers updated resources, and administration areas improve efficiency for teachers and staff.

Sports facilities have been enhanced to encourage physical activity and extracurricular programmes, helping learners develop holistically. Security measures, including fencing and access controls, address past safety concerns in the area. The school has maintained an impressive 100 percent matric pass rate for more than 15 years, and the new infrastructure is expected to help sustain and even improve these results.

For learners who endured years of temporary arrangements, overcrowded classes, and disruptions, the unveiling brings relief and excitement.

Teachers can now focus on teaching rather than managing poor facilities, while parents feel confident their children are in a safe, inspiring space.
Human Rights Month Significance and Community Impact

The timing during Human Rights Month underscores the link between quality education and basic rights. Human Rights Day on 21 March commemorates the fight for dignity and equality, and delivering a proper school after long delays reflects government’s duty to provide access to education as enshrined in the Constitution.

uMlazi, one of Durban’s largest townships with a population exceeding 400 000, faces challenges like high unemployment, poverty, and overcrowding in schools. Menzi High School serves a community where education is seen as a pathway out of hardship. The completion eases pressure on nearby schools and supports efforts to reduce dropout rates and improve outcomes for youth.

A Message of Resilience and Future Focus

MEC Meyer and department officials used the event to highlight progress in tackling construction mafia across the province. They credited collaboration with traditional leaders, law enforcement, and communities for the turnaround. The school stands as proof that determined action can overcome obstacles and deliver for the people.

As learners prepare to return to classes in the upgraded facility, the mood in uMlazi is one of hope and pride. After years of waiting, this state-of-the-art school not only provides better learning conditions but also restores faith in government’s ability to deliver essential infrastructure despite tough