Eastern Cape Floods Claim 103 Lives as Recovery Efforts Persist Amidst Devastation

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Eastern Cape Flood

The Eastern Cape is reeling from catastrophic floods that struck in June 2025, with the death toll climbing to 103 as search and recovery operations continue in the hardest-hit districts. The majority of fatalities have been reported in the OR Tambo and Amathole districts, where torrential rains have left a trail of destruction, displacing hundreds of families and devastating communities. More than 30 children are among the deceased, a grim reminder of the disaster’s toll on the province’s most vulnerable. Weeks after the deluge, many residents remain without homes or basic services, while a massive relief effort works to provide shelter, food, and hope. This article explores the latest updates on the death toll, recovery initiatives, government response, and the profound community impact.

Death Toll Rises to 103 Amid Ongoing Searches

As of the latest reports, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government has confirmed 103 deaths linked to the floods. The OR Tambo district has suffered the heaviest losses, with 78 fatalities, followed by Amathole with 10, Alfred Nzo and Chris Hani with five each, Joe Gqabi with two, and Sarah Baartman with two. Among the victims are 63 adults and 39 children, including 32 school-aged learners whose lives were cut short by the floodwaters.
The tragedy has hit Mthatha and its surrounding villages particularly hard, where homes, schools, and infrastructure were swept away. Search and rescue teams, aided by South African Police Service (SAPS) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) helicopters, are still combing rivers and debris for two missing children. Of the 103 bodies recovered, 98 have been identified and collected by families, while officials warn that DNA testing may be needed for the remaining unidentified victims due to decomposition—a process that could prolong the anguish for grieving loved ones.

Recovery Efforts: Relief and Rebuilding in Motion

The floods have impacted over 6,000 households, leaving more than 4,000 people homeless across the province. A large-scale relief operation is underway, with community care centres and temporary shelters established in Mthatha and Butterworth to provide immediate support. Humanitarian organizations like Gift of the Givers, alongside government departments, are distributing food, clothing, and essential supplies to those in need.
The Department of Health is offering on-site medical care, including replacement medications for chronic conditions, while the Department of Social Development provides psychosocial support to families and schools affected by the loss of learners. Mobile units from the Department of Home Affairs have processed 478 applications for replacement IDs and birth certificates, ensuring displaced residents can access vital services.
Looking ahead, the provincial government has announced plans to construct over 1,000 temporary homes for displaced families. Communities and private donors have been praised for their contributions, with officials assuring residents that recovery efforts will persist in the coming weeks and months. However, challenges remain, as search teams continue to scour devastated areas for any additional victims.

The Eastern Cape has been declared a national disaster zone under the Disaster Management Act, unlocking critical resources to address the crisis. The floods have caused an estimated R5.1 billion in damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities. Earlier this year, the province received R1.44 billion in disaster funding, and more support is on the way.
On 7 July 2025, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa will announce the disbursement of the Municipal Disaster Response Grant and the Disaster Recovery Grant to provinces and municipalities. These funds will bolster immediate relief efforts and support long-term recovery, with a focus on restoring essential services like water and sanitation. Minister Hlabisa has promised strict oversight to ensure the money is used effectively, reflecting the government’s commitment to accountability.

Community Impact: Displacement and Resilience

The floods have left deep scars on Eastern Cape communities, particularly in OR Tambo, where Mthatha residents continue to grapple with submerged neighborhoods and widespread displacement. In Amathole, the Butterworth Water Treatment Works remains offline, leaving families dependent on water tankers. Across the province, over 4,000 people are still without homes, and access to clean water and electricity remains limited in many areas.
Survivors have shared stories of unimaginable loss. The death of 14-year-old Siyavuya Mkatshane, swept away while walking to school, has become a poignant symbol of the disaster’s human cost. EFF Leader Julius Malema, who attended Siyavuya’s funeral, offered condolences and criticized the government’s response. “We are here to stand with the Mkatshane family in this time of deep sorrow,” he said. “You are not alone—we share in your pain.”
Malema has also called out Premier Oscar Mabuyane for taking a 34-day leave during the crisis, accusing authorities of delays and mismanagement. He has vowed that the EFF will monitor relief funds and assist with burials and shelter for affected families, urging South Africa’s wealthy to donate essentials like clothes and toys.

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