Amathole District Declared A Disaster Area After Storms

The Amathole District in the Eastern Cape has been declared a disaster area following thunderstorms that ravaged communities in the district from December into January.

At least 59 villages were affected and extensive damage was caused to homes, roads and infrastructure.

The area was assessed by national, provincial and district Disaster Management Centres and classified as a national disaster under Section 23 of the Disaster Management Act No 57 of 2002.

The spokesperson for the District Municipality, Sisa Msiwa, says the damage is estimated to amount to more than R57 million.

"In Ngqushwa alone, 148 families were left homeless and 83 households were also completely destroyed. In other local municipalities namely your Amahlathi, Mbhashe and Mnquma basic services were also disrupted during this time. In response, ADM Area Disaster Management has been working hand in hand with humanitarian organisations like the Red Cross, Gift of the Givers as well as government departments to provide relief."