We mourn the loss of Des D’sa

30 October 2026
Abahlali baseMjondolo press statement

We mourn the loss of Des D’Sa, father, uncle, grandfather, and a comrade to many

The death of Desmond D’Sa has plunged many people on the left in Durban and beyond, across numerous organisations, into shock and despair. Siyakhala ngo Des.

Comrade Des was a stalwart in the struggle against apartheid and was a well-known organiser who formed the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA), an environmental organisation that raised the concerns of families living in the oil- and gas-affected areas of Wentworth and the Bluff.

His activism and the fight against injustices did not end with environmental issues and it definitely did not end in Wentworth and the Bluff. Comrade Des fought against all forms of oppression and injustice, including gangsterism and the mining companies in rural areas, and supported everyone from fisherfolk to migrants and poor people, whether living in flats, hostels or shacks. He did not back down when struggle became dangerous. Comrade Des spoke fluent isiZulu and engaged everyone with the same respect.

He joined the first march against ANC councillor Yacoob Baig organised from Kennedy Road in 2005, which became part of the process towards the formation of our movement. He stood with our movement from the beginning, and was one of the few who never wavered in his support even when we were under severe attack and isolated.

Comrade Des was one of the founders of the Right to Know Campaign that fought fought against secrecy while promoting the right to information. He was also one of the founders of The Durban Coalition, which was first formed in response to the devastating floods of 2022. The Coalition, which unites community organisations across the city in a united front, is thriving today and is an important formation in the city.

We will miss Comrade Des so much. He was always on the side of the people. He was always so warm and kind. We always laughed when he was around.

We wish to thank his family for him. And wish to express our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and comrades.

It is so sad and devastating that you have left us. Till we meet again.

Hamba kahle Comrade Des D’Sa. Ubuyiqhawe.

Contact:

Thapelo Mohapi 084 576 5117
Mqapheli Bonono 074 067 3274