Limpopo: President Cyril Ramaphosa has visited the Limpopo province where heavy rainfall and flooding has left at least 19 people dead and caused destruction to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The President, together with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and Limpopo Premier, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, visited the Vhembe and Mopani Districts to assess the damage caused by the more than 400mm of rain that fell in the area.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa described the damage as catastrophic, particularly highlighting the severe impact in the Mopani District where 36 houses were destroyed. A tragic incident also occurred with the loss of a five-year-old child. The President emphasized the urgency of the situation and the efforts being made by government officials to assist those affected by the disaster.
The President acknowledged the significant role played by the provincial government, noting their strong response to the crisis. He also praised the South African Airforce for their rescue operations, which included saving individuals from rooftops and trees. This, he stated, reflects an improvement in disaster response at both institutional and local government levels.
Community solidarity was another aspect that President Ramaphosa commended during his visit. He shared an inspiring story of individuals using a rope to rescue others, saving lives that might have otherwise been lost. He expressed gratitude for the communal efforts and the lives saved as a result.
President Ramaphosa also warned about the growing impacts of climate change, highlighting the increased frequency and severity of such weather events. He stated that more rain is expected in the coming days, attributing these extreme weather conditions to climate change. The President urged those who remain skeptical about climate change to reconsider, given the unprecedented destruction witnessed.
The Limpopo provincial government is expected to provide further updates and brief the media on the situation.