Nkomazi: President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasizes the need for leadership visibility during times of community distress, as the government ramps up efforts to address the devastating floods that have claimed lives, destroyed infrastructure, displaced families, and disrupted education across several provinces.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa addressed the media during his visit to the Nkomazi Local Municipality in Mpumalanga. This visit follows the National Disaster Management Centre’s (NDMC) decision to classify the recent floods as a national disaster. The classification comes in the wake of severe weather conditions affecting Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, resulting in significant loss of life, extensive damage to infrastructure and property, environmental degradation, and disruption to schooling and economic activities.
The President highlighted the importance of leaders engaging directly with affected communities to understand the challenges they face. He mentioned receiving regular updates from Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu and other provincial executives, who have been actively engaging with the impacted areas.
President Ramaphosa noted the widespread destruction, including damaged roads, washed-away houses, and the inability of children to attend school. He stated that the national government, alongside the inter-ministerial committee on disaster management, is discussing necessary interventions. The Minister of Finance, currently in Davos, is also being briefed on the situation.
Commending the swift action of first responders, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the efforts of the South African National Defence Force and local emergency services. He stressed the increasing frequency and intensity of climate change-related disasters, urging for strengthened disaster response capabilities.
The President reiterated South Africa’s call for climate finance to support nations in the Global South affected by climate change. He also addressed criticisms regarding the pace of government response and early warning systems, acknowledging room for improvement. Long-term solutions include enhanced town planning and stricter enforcement of municipal bylaws to prevent settlements in vulnerable areas.
In addition to domestic efforts, South Africa has extended support to Mozambique, providing air assistance amid their severe flooding situation. President Ramaphosa also expressed deep sorrow over a tragic scholar transport accident in the Vaal area, which resulted in the loss of 13 learners’ lives. He emphasized the critical importance of safety in the scholar transport system.
The President conveyed his condolences to families who have lost loved ones and communities impacted by the floods and recent tragedies. His commitment to improving disaster response and ensuring community safety remains a focal point in addressing current and future challenges.