ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
28 JUNE 2023

The Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, together with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube as well as eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda today led a government visit to the community of Inanda to assess damage from yesterday’s storm and to assure for themselves that families who have been affected are receiving adequate support and assistance.

Speaking at Maoti Community Hall, Minister Mmamabolo Kubayi said her department would be sending professional engineers to properly assess the damage to homes and would be looking into the provision of building vouchers to assist families to rebuild their homes.  

Premier Nomusa Dube Premier Nomusa Dube echoed the Minister’s words, adding that temporary accommodation would be provided to some displaced families. 

Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said the city’s rescue and emergency teams worked throughout last night and they responded to more than 100 calls for assistance. “They rescued people that were trapped in their properties and on the roads, especially in the PINK area (Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu). Other areas affected areas include Pinetown, St Wendolins, Nazareth, New Germany, Westville, Reservoir Hills, Umkomaas, Mbumbulu and  Folweni.” 

Kaunda said the City’s multi-disciplinary teams such as Water, Electricity, Roads, Parks are in various communities to ensure that services are restored and that infrastructure is repaired swiftly.  Many areas lost power, but technicians have begun restoring it in several areas.  

Some roads remain closed after being waterlogged. These include Bayhead, Brickfield, M7 Bellville, and Stapleton Road.

Many homes suffered extensive damage, and community halls were opened last night to accommodate those who needed shelter. Affected families are being accommodated in Amaoti Hall and in other halls. 

Different teams from the city are continuing to clear roads by removing fallen trees, sand, and debris. 

There is one reported fatality in Zwelisha where an adult male was washed away by raging waters.  Search and rescue teams are continuing with the search today. 

Assessments are continuing to establish numbers of those who are affected and are in need of building material to rebuild their homes. 

For any emergencies, communities can contact the city’s emergency line on 031 361 0000.

ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality