ANDILE MOSHOESHOE 

GREATER Kokstad Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal with Harry Gwala District Municipality have strengthened partnership with electricity supply, Eskom, and the major government stakeholder, Red Cross, to deal with disaster consequences that left Kokstad communities vulnerable.

 The strategic deal to work together was taken at the Kokstad municipality’s council on Wednesday which included police and other state organs willing to join forces as part of becoming good Samaritans to victims of disaster.

The town of Kokstad and surroundings was recently hard hit by snow that left some locals severely affected.

The deputy mayor for the Greater Kokstad Municipality, Karen Walker, said that the municipality has been doing well in dealing with the snow and fire disasters.

She said the municipality believes in an open-door policy where everyone is invited to offer a helping hand.

This week, over 200 snow affected victims in Ward 2 and Ward 6 received comfort and gifts from Red Cross, Eskom as well as the local municipalities and stakeholders.

Victims received food parcels, hygiene packs, kitchen sets, sponges and blankets. Red Cross Finance Manager in KwaZulu-Natal, Siyabonga Hlatshwayo, said they have taken the initiative to also focus on remote areas like Kokstad.

“Since we have seven branches in seven districts, we saw it necessary that we should also go to people in rural areas and give help they need,” he said.

The Greater Kokstad Municipality conveyed a heartfelt appreciation to Red Cross and Eskom for their generosity and unwavering commitment to communities in distress. Their contribution has left a meaningful impact on the lives of the recipients, said the municipality.