Department steps in to co-ordinate humanitarian relief after damages caused by heavy rains
The Department of Local Government and Human Settlements in Bokone Bophirima has moved swiftly to co-ordinate humanitarian relief for families whose houses and belongings got destroyed by torrential rains and hail storm in Ngaka Modiri Molema district which has worst hit.
The Department is working with different stakeholders in the province, i.e. The South African Red Cross Society , South African Social Security (SASSA), Department of Social Development, Ngaka Modiri Molema district and affected local municipalities to address the situation. The South African Red Cross Society and SASSA have already started to distribute food parcels, blankets and provide social relief distress grant to affected families.
To date, a number of incidents have been reported throughout the district in Mahikeng, Ditsobotla and Tswaing local municipalities where shacks have been blown away, formal structures’ roof damaged and window panes damaged.
Acting MEC for Local Government and Human Settlements, Wendy Nelson said the Department through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PMDC) assisted by other relevant stakeholders including Community Development Workers, will continue to attended to cases as they get reported and make the necessary arrangements to make the lives of those affected, less unbearable.
“Whilst the PMDC is currently sourcing temporary shelter as well as make arrangements for the repair of damaged shacks and houses, but we would like to urge those who can afford to rebuild their houses to do so such that we can concentrate on those that have been adversely affected”, said MEC Nelson.
Meanwhile, other incidents that have been reported in Bojanala platinum district in Kgetleng, Moretele, Madibeng local municipalities include broken window panes, a house that has collapsed, an early learning centre that was destroyed by strong winds. “Bojanala platinum district municipality has been able to co-ordinate the provision of the necessary humanitarian relief for the affected families and will continue to monitor the situation’’, said MEC Nelson.
No incidents have been reported in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati and Dr Kenneth Kaunda district municipalities, as yesterday (Saturday).
Enquiries:
Mr Ben Bole
Tel: 018 388 4824
Cell: 071 566 1399
Fax: 018 391 0328
E-mail: MSBole@nwpg.gov.za
