Eastern cape: The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has intensified efforts to coordinate disaster relief and recovery measures following the devastating floods that have impacted the province, particularly in the OR Tambo and Amathole Districts.
According to South African Government News Agency, a multidisciplinary team led by the Office of the Premier, supported by various government departments and local municipalities, has been deployed since the onset of the disaster. A Provincial Joint Operations Centre (JOC) has been activated to streamline the disaster response, alongside a Donations Management Team tasked with coordinating humanitarian aid. This team is actively assessing the safety and welfare of residents in temporary shelters and distributing necessary supplies.
The team is also progressing in resettling displaced residents, a process that is expected to resume following proper governmental procedures. The official death toll has reached 103, including 32 school-going children, with most fatalities occurring in the OR Tambo District. Of the deceased, 98 bodies have been identified, while 5 remain unidentified. The Department of Home Affairs has registered 92 of these deaths.
Floodwaters have severely impacted over 6,800 households, leaving thousands homeless and causing partial damage to numerous dwellings. Search and recovery operations are ongoing, and emergency response teams continue their critical work to support affected communities. The Provincial Government has expressed gratitude to all involved stakeholders and assured comprehensive support until full recovery is achieved.
In a unified effort, entities like the South African National Defence Force and Mercedes-Benz have contributed significant donations, reinforcing relief operations. Other contributors include Shoprite, Meals on Wheels, AbaThembu Kingdom, and various community members.
COGTA MEC Zolile Williams, along with local mayors, conducted oversight visits to assess conditions at Community Care Centres accommodating displaced residents. While community members appreciated the support, they emphasized the need for durable housing solutions. MEC Williams reaffirmed the commitment to restoring dignity for affected families, with plans underway for temporary residential units.
Land has been identified for constructing 1,230 Temporary Residential Units in KSD and Mnquma municipalities, with R120 million allocated for initial implementation. An estimated R461 million is needed to meet the full demand for temporary housing. Verification of damaged homes is ongoing, with Joe Gqabi District having completed the process. This effort aims to determine families needing temporary or permanent relocation.
Progress in the recovery process includes completed burials, psychosocial support for affected individuals, food vouchers, and processed identification documents. Infrastructure repair is also underway, with significant damage reported in schools, health facilities, roads, and bridges. The estimated cost for infrastructure repairs is R5.04 billion.
The provincial government emphasizes the importance of collaboration in responding to the crisis and remains committed to ensuring transparent management of donations and support for displaced families.