The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and National Treasury are working together to explore new funding mechanisms, as the country experiences more disaster events.

On Monday, CoGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa announced that a funding request has been submitted to Treasury to support affected groups and organisations with the reconstruction and rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure.

‘We acknowledge the challenges faced by the country in funding disaster interventions, mainly due to increased disaster damages, fiscal deficit and competing priorities.

‘The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is currently engaging National Treasury on other funding mechanisms to ensure sustainability,’ the Minister said.

He assured those affected and South Africans generally that government remains committed to partnering with local and national entities to strengthen disaster preparedness and response, and rebuilding communities.

Hlabisa was speaking during a
media briefing in Pretoria, where he focused on South Africa’s readiness for the upcoming summer season and disaster preparedness.

He said the Finance Minister will announce a substantial allocation to grants to deal with past disasters, at the municipal and provincial levels, when he tables his Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement on Wednesday.

‘… After that, we will give details in as far as the funding that will be available, and how it will be allocated,’ said Hlabisa.

The Minister highlighted the devastating floods in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal recently, which led to significant displacement and loss of life.

He said relief measures are being implemented, including housing for displaced households and food assistance.

The Minister said communities, infrastructure and the economy face significant threats from natural hazards such as floods, heat waves, wildfires and droughts.

‘While the pressing realities of climate change have exacerbated some of these risks, others are unfortunately man-m
ade, stemming from unsustainable practices and inadequate planning. We believe that recognising these risks is the first step towards addressing them comprehensively.’

Hlabisa acknowledged that emerging hazards require attention, and that the National Disaster Management Centre is working around the clock to mitigate the effects.

‘Given the continued negative impact of these hazards on the lives of South Africans, we understand that it cannot be business as usual. We understand that we must act decisively to safeguard the wellbeing of all citizens and protect our vulnerable communities.’

The implementation of relief measures is underway in all the affected areas, particularly in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, which is one of the most affected.

These relief measures, Hlabisa said, are a collaborative effort by organs of the State, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations. The measures include housing of displaced households in temporary evacuation facilities, providing hot meals, food p
arcels, blankets and mattresses, as well as psychosocial support to the affected.

In addition, the Minister said assessments are underway to establish the extent of the damage and required interventions.

CoGTA has been working tirelessly with disaster management structures, including the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, to coordinate the response efforts to the recent heavy rains.

‘We are also working closely with municipalities, the provincial government and other stakeholders to ensure that affected communities receive the necessary support, including food, shelter, and other essential services.

“The department will continue to monitor the situation and support affected communities.’

Source: South African Government News Agency