In an inspiring move to support the homeless community, the Nina Manzi project, a collaboration between Advance Access and Delivery South Africa and Viva Con Agua, unveiled new mobile sanitation facilities at the Bellhaven Harm Reduction Centre in Greyville last week.

This initiative aims to provide humane access to clean water and basic sanitation, thereby restoring dignity to its patrons.

The launch event gathered sponsors and supporters to celebrate the significant milestone.

The project is part of a broader effort by Viva Con Agua, a network committed to ensuring access to clean drinking water and sanitation, and by Advance Access and Delivery South Africa, an organisation dedicated to providing accessible healthcare solutions.

Michael Wilson, the director of Advance Access and Delivery SA, shared the journey leading to the establishment of the Bellhaven Centre. It originated in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic when a drug withdrawal programme at Moses Mabhida Stadium transitioned into a more permanent facility for the homeless to receive care, including methadone treatment. Since its inception, the centre has served more than 2000 men and women in the Durban City area, offering opioid-substitution therapy, an active ARV programme, and a TB programme.

“We’ve been in this space in Greyville for 44 months. We moved into this space on June 1, 2020, and we have been able to provide services to more than 2 000 men and women in Durban City, and this is largely thanks to the amazing partnerships that we have,” said Mr Wilson.

Phumelele Muthali from Viva Con Agua highlighted the importance of the Nina Manzi project in restoring dignity through access to clean, safe sanitation facilities. The mobile units are designed to be welcoming and practical, featuring vibrant exteriors and interiors equipped with four shower cubicles, two toilet cubicles, all-purpose shower gel, and toilet paper. Special attention has been given to making the units accessible to those with mobility issues.

“The shower cubicles are easy to use – you’re able to find a bin for your clothes so they stay dry during the shower, and there is a rail available for people who have mobility issues.

“All-purpose shower gel is also available, and the toilets are equipped with toilet paper. The idea of this facility is that when clients come here, they don’t need anything extra – everything is provided for them, it’s cleaned after every use and we are making sure that anyone can walk into the mobile facilities and have a pleasant experience.”

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Ablution facilities for homeless launched