SIPHELELE NKETO
THE community of Ngwetsheni in KwaBhaca, formerly known as Mount Frere, was left distraught after a violent storm ruined their lives last Sunday, April 5.
The storm, accompanied by strong winds, blew away roofs and left many people homeless. A vehicle that was parked on the street was suddenly pushed by strong winds until it hit a wall and killed two victims: Lihle Meyato (29) and Qhamani Langa (35).
Both Meyato and Langa were in the car during the storm. Four people that were injured were taken to hospital for treatment and two of them were later discharged.
It has been reported that six homes were affected, as well as another eight homes in Goxe, a nearby village.
Umzimvubu Local Municipality said that a preliminary report has been compiled and submitted to relevant government departments, including the Department of Human Settlements, with particular attention given to families who have been left homeless.
The municipality further stated that it has coordinated a multi-sectoral response to ensure that affected households receive urgent assistance.
“Key departments such as the Department of Social Development are currently on site, providing psychosocial support to affected families and the broader community. This support includes trauma debriefing and ongoing assessments for Social Relief of Distress (SRD), while the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has initiated assessments and is providing essential relief items to affected individuals, including vouchers, mattresses and school uniforms,” the municipality indicated in a statement.
Mayor Zukiswa Ndevu accompanied by churches and various government departments conducted a visit to the affected areas on Tuesday, April 7.
“The municipality remains firmly committed to supporting all affected residents and ensuring that both immediate relief and long-term recovery measures are implemented in a coordinated manner,” Ndevu said. Member of the Mayoral Committee responsible for Community Development Services in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, Eunice Diko, appealed to communities to exercise extreme caution during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
