Date: 2025-10-31 13:35:46

Collaboration With Media Crucial In Disaster Response

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COLLABORATION WITH MEDIA CRUCIAL IN DISASTER RESPONSE 

Collaboration between eThekwini Municipality and the media is vital in saving lives and protecting property during disasters.

This was highlighted during a media walkabout at the City’s Disaster Management Centre today, 31 October.

The session provided media representatives with a first-hand look at how the Disaster Management Centre operates and coordinates responses during life-threatening weather conditions. 

Disaster Management Centre Manager Jotham Khumalo said the Centre functions within a legislative framework that mandates close cooperation with national and provincial disaster centres.

“We have proactive plans in place for any type of disaster to safeguard lives and property,” said Khumalo.

He explained that the Municipality prioritises disaster risk reduction through continuous planning and preparedness efforts. 

“Before activating the Joint Operational Centre (JOC), we conduct a needs assessment to determine the magnitude of the event. The JOC is activated once the weather warning reaches a certain level,” he said.

Khumalo noted that the Municipality has suffered major financial losses from various disasters over the years, including an estimated R576 million during the 2017 floods, R1.8 billion in 2019, R20 billion during the 2021 unrest, and R17 billion from the 2022 floods.

Relief interventions are coordinated through ward councillors, who identify community halls and other facilities for possible evacuations.

Khumalo further stressed the importance of the media during disasters.

“The media plays a critical role in equipping residents with timely, accurate information that can save lives. We rely on them to raise awareness and alert communities to evacuate when necessary,” he said.

He urged residents to evacuate swiftly when instructed and reminded members of the media to always verify information before publication to prevent misinformation during emergencies.

ENDS

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.