ABAMNKELWA ZIZINDLU BANCEDWEYIMIBUTHO YESISA

The Amathole region was declared a disaster area last week following heavy rains at the end of December, which continued into this month, causing severe damage to homes and leaving people without shelter in areas such as Mnquma, Mahlathi, Raymond Mhlaba, and Ngqushwa.

The village of Siqithini in Xilinxa, Ngqamakhwe, has been particularly affected, with 16 homes left uninhabitable, forcing people to sleep outside due to the heavy rains. According to a report released by the Amathole district municipality, the damage caused by the storms is estimated at R57,263,582.11.

A damage assessment was carried out by the Department of Human Settlements, in collaboration with national, provincial, and district disaster management centres. A total of 148 families were left homeless in Ngqushwa, while 83 homes were destroyed in Mnquma, Mbhashe, Raymond Mhlaba, and Mahlathi. This has caused major disruptions to essential services in these areas due to the flooding.

Humanitarian organizations such as Gift of the Givers, The Red Cross Society, and Al Imdaad Foundation, along with the Department of Social Development, have stepped in to assist those who lost their homes, providing bedding, food, and other necessities.

The head of Siqithini village, Chief Vuyokazi “Ah Nozuko” Qongo, expressed gratitude for the support received from these organizations and the government. However, she appealed for more help, particularly the provision of temporary housing for those who lost everything. “Although the government has provided support to our area, I request additional assistance in the form of temporary houses for those who lost everything,” said Qongo. She also highlighted the need for counseling to help those affected regain hope.

The Amathole municipality assured that all flood victims would receive the necessary aid and emphasized their commitment to supporting the community as much as possible. The district also reiterated that they will continue to warn the community about upcoming storms and any worsening weather conditions, particularly in rural areas.