The Commission extends heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives in this disaster. Our thoughts are with the affected communities during this difficult time.

We commend the tireless efforts of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Emergency Medical Services, and the Disaster Management teams who are on the front lines to this crisis. Considering the scale of this disaster, the Commission urges individual South Africans, the government, and the private sector to join hands to provide immediate relief and support to the affected communities. Prompt action is essential to mitigate further harm, provide necessary shelter, and address the urgent needs of those displaced and affected by the floods.

The government, in particular, bears a critical responsibility to implement effective stormwater management strategies to reduce flooding and erosion in the future. The Commission is committed to supporting the families and communities affected by floods in Ntuzuma and other areas in KwaZulu-Natal. The Commission will visit the areas to engage directly with the impacted families, and ensure their concerns are heard and addressed.

We call on all spheres of government to prioritise disaster management planning in line with climate change considerations to ensure that there is a rapid early warning mechanism to mitigate against devastating floods.

We urge all stakeholders to collaborate and provide the necessary resources to assist in the swift recovery of the area and its residents.

ENDS

For further information, Mr Wisani Baloyi on 081 016 8308 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Given Makhuvele @ 082 773 4428/ 072 1977 581 (WhatsApp) email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.