By Anita Dangazele
- Over 4,700 people are homeless and more than 2,100 homes were damaged after floods hit Mthatha, Butterworth and other parts of the province.
- The National Lottery Commission gave R10-million in aid, but the government says it still needs much more to build all the planned houses.
More than 6,800 households were hit by the recent floods, and at least 4,724 people are now without homes. The provincial government has already set aside R120-million to build 1,230 temporary homes, but officials say that is not enough.
They say another R461-million is needed to provide emergency housing for everyone who lost their homes.
So far, land has been found in Mthatha and Butterworth for the planned housing. But while donations have come in from private companies and the South African National Defence Force, the need is still massive.
Floodwaters left a trail of destruction across the province. At least 2,145 homes were damaged, and many others were destroyed completely.
The official death toll has now reached 103. Among the dead are 40 children, including 32 pupils, and 63 adults. The OR Tambo district was hit hardest, with 79 deaths. Other deaths were recorded in Amathole, Alfred Nzo, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, and Sarah Baartman districts.
Emergency teams are still searching for victims, and five bodies have not yet been identified. So far, 71 people have been buried.
Damage to schools, roads, and clinics is also severe. The province says 235 schools, 69 health facilities, 149 roads, and 91 bridges have all been affected. Officials are still checking how many families need either temporary or permanent housing.
AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo visited care centres and handed out relief items. After that, the National Lottery Commission donated R10-million. “We also want to contribute to the development of rural communities as a long-term intervention,” said Barney Pityana of the Lottery.
Pictured above: Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane delivering donations at a relief centre in Butterworth.
Image source: Office of the Premier
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