Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
24 October 2024 | 13:11 CAT

A devastated home in the aftermath of Eastern Cape flooding, with debris scattered around. (Image/Muslim Hands)

The Eastern Cape is grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding, marking the second such disaster within a year. The recent downpours, accompanied by fierce winds, have led to devastating consequences across the province, particularly affecting Gqeberha and surrounding areas. Relief operations, spearheaded by organizations like Gift of the Givers, are in full swing as they address immediate community needs.

The floods have already claimed one life, that of an elderly man in Gqeberha. Thousands of students were unable to reach their schools to write matric exams. Speaking to Radio Islam International, Mario Ferreira from Gift of the Givers outlined the seriousness of the situation:

“At the moment, we are managing 23 relief centres accommodating over 3,000 displaced residents. We are providing food, blankets, and mattresses, though several areas are without power, and water supplies remain cut off,” Ferreira highlighted.

Communities across Nelson Mandela Bay, from Walmer Estate to Port Elizabeth, are among the hardest hit. Ferreira explained that many areas will likely remain without electricity for weeks, complicating efforts to restore water services.

“Water tankers are operating daily to ensure basic access to water, but infrastructure repair will take time,” he added.

The impact on infrastructure is compounded by unresolved damage from the previous floods.

“Some previous flood damage hadn’t been repaired, and now it’s worsened, meaning the cost and time to rebuild have increased,” Ferreira noted.

In brighter news, Ferreira shared that the weather had cleared, allowing residents to salvage any dry belongings. However, theft and vandalism remain concerns as families take turns guarding their homes.

The call for support is urgent. Gift of the Givers requests monetary donations and essential items like new clothes, food parcels, and bedding.

“New clothes are particularly important. One of our key values is to preserve the dignity of those we assist,” Ferreira emphasized.

With eight relief teams on the ground, the organization is adapting its response as needs evolve.

“We encourage donors to contribute financially to help us address these shifting needs effectively,” Ferreira appealed.

As the sun shines again over the Eastern Cape, the road to recovery will be long, but the resilience of affected communities and the dedication of aid organizations offer hope.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Mario Ferreira here.