A deadly rift between KZN villages in northern KwaZulu-Natal has turned the Ulundi–Nongoma road into a tense and dangerous border. Once, this tarred route connected two rural communities. Now, it symbolises mistrust, fear, and hostility. Residents from both sides say the ongoing conflict affects where they travel, who they speak to, and how they live each day.
Stabbing Triggers Cycle of Revenge
The conflict began when a KwaMusi school pupil died in a stabbing. This tragedy sparked anger and grief that quickly spread across both communities. Soon afterwards, retaliatory attacks targeted individuals suspected of involvement. As the deadly rift between KZN villages grew, the road became more than just a route, it became a no-go zone for many.
Escalating Attacks Disrupt Community Life
In the months after the stabbing, over 35 violent incidents struck the area. Consequently, residents changed routines to avoid crossing into rival territory. Parents kept children home rather than risk sending them to schools across the divide. Shops and small businesses reported a sharp drop in customers, and social gatherings vanished. This conflict between neighbouring KZN villages has not only damaged safety but also the local economy.
Loss of Trust and Broken Ties
The deadly rift between KZN villages has fractured relationships built over generations. Friends stopped visiting each other. Families who once celebrated weddings and cultural events together now live apart. Elders recall when the road encouraged connection rather than fear. Today, they see it as a symbol of division, warning that unity will be hard to rebuild without serious effort.
Calls for Mediation and Lasting Peace
While police have acted to stop certain outbreaks of violence, enforcement alone cannot repair the damage. Community leaders believe structured mediation is essential to address grievances and halt the cycle of revenge. They argue that only sustained dialogue can heal the deadly rift between KZN villages and restore trust. Until then, the Ulundi–Nongoma road will remain a physical and emotional barrier between people who once lived side by side.
