KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Sipho Hlomuka today visited the Inkosi Langalibelele local municipality, where severe thunderstorms left a trail of destruction on New Year’s Day, with over a hundred houses destroyed.
Hlomuka, who was accompanied by the Inkosi Langalibalele Mayor Cllr J. Mbhele and uThukela District Deputy Mayor Cllr N. Sibiya, delivered interim relief to families in the Mahlubingwane area in Ward 5. The relief included the provision of blankets, food and an emergency box; which has pots, a kettle, a stove and cutlery.
Cogta MEC Sipho Hlomuka has assured affected residents that the provincial government is doing all in its power to support them during this difficult time. “We are very saddened by the devastation that we witnessed today. The provincial government is doing everything in its power to ensure that the affected residents receive adequate support as they rebuild their lives. We are working with several departments and other organs of state to ensure that more relief is provided to the victims which includes the provision of building material” said Hlomuka.
Disaster management teams are continuing with assessments and are visiting all the people that are affected in the areas of Mahlubi, Mangwe, Tatane and Mwedandaba in Wards 4 and 5.
Inclement weather conditions expected to continue across the province
Hlomuka has also placed disaster management teams on alert in the Harry Gwala and Mgungundlovu District following weather reports received from the South African Weather Service which indicate that severe thunderstorms are expected to hit the Harry Gwala District moving towards Richmond, Msunduzi and Mkhambathini with possible hail, strong winds and heavy downpours. Hlomuka has called for residents in these areas to be weary of the impact these thunderstorms could have on the roads and in their communities.
For more information contact: Cogta spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila, 082 474 1882
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