Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tamsin Metelerkamp
Published on 2024-04-09 11:56:52
Communities in the Western Cape have faced significant challenges due to the recent strong winds and rains that hit the region over the weekend. Gift of the Givers, a nonprofit organization, has been actively providing disaster relief supplies to those affected. By Monday, 8 April, they were working in 17 areas, distributing essentials such as food, blankets, and toiletry packs.
Accompanied by Daily Maverick, Gift of the Givers visited Lwandle and Nomzamo, neighboring township districts in Strand, Cape Town, where they assisted 1,500 individuals. Residents lined up outside the local community hall to receive much-needed emergency supplies as the rain persisted.
The storm’s impact was severe, with many homes damaged by the strong winds. Zanele Beba, a resident queuing for aid, shared her shock at the intensity of the storm, noting that it had been years since they experienced such severe weather. The damages left them homeless, with belongings destroyed and infrastructure significantly impacted.
Bongi Tomsana, queuing alongside Beba, expressed concerns about the approaching winter storms and the challenges faced in rebuilding their damaged homes. She called for government assistance in providing suitable land and housing for those in informal settlements who were most affected by the disaster.
Gift of the Givers visited homes that were ravaged by the storm, offering support to those in need. The organization’s efforts extended to various communities across the Western Cape, responding to calls for help and distributing essential items to those impacted by the adverse weather conditions.
In Lwandle, resident Bongiwe Nonkenese was seen trying to sweep water out of her home, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by residents in the area. She emphasized the urgent need for improved living conditions and proper housing, especially for the sake of the children in the community.
ANC councillor Xolani Diniso stressed the importance of addressing the housing concerns in Ward 86, acknowledging the lack of significant housing projects in the area for over two decades. The City of Cape Town responded to queries about housing, emphasizing the need for safe and habitable living conditions for all residents.
As Gift of the Givers continued their relief efforts, they encountered various challenges, including a fire in Kayamandi and storm-related damages in Donkerbos. The organization mobilized resources to assist multiple communities across the Western Cape, providing aid and support where it was most needed.
The City of Cape Town officials reassured residents of their ongoing efforts to address the infrastructure and service needs of informal settlements, allocating resources to improve living conditions and reduce health and safety risks in these areas.
Despite the challenges posed by the recent storms, Gift of the Givers remained committed to providing assistance to those in need, expanding their relief operations to reach more communities in the Western Cape. They called for donations and support to continue their relief efforts and help those affected by the adverse weather conditions.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
