The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has ramped up its disaster response following the devastating floods that swept through multiple districts, leaving at least 78 people dead and displacing hundreds. Bodies are being held at the Mthatha Forensic Mortuary, with identification efforts currently underway. A reception area has been set up at Sir Henry Elliot Hall to offer counselling to affected families.

Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane on behalf of the Provincial Government extended condolences to grieving families and reaffirmed the province s commitment to restoring dignity and safety to all affected communities.

The Provincial Government is leading coordinated relief and recovery efforts across affected areas. Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced in Amathole alone, now housed in community halls. Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Premier Mabuyane and Members of the Executive Council have since been on the ground to assess the damage and engage with communities. President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently in Mthatha to evaluate the impact incident.

Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has praised NGOs and government departments for their swift intervention. Donations of food, clothing, hygiene items, and blankets have been made by various organisations businesses. The Department of Social Development has procured additional essentials and is facilitating counselling and support services.

In Mthatha, 38 people were rescued through coordinated emergency efforts, with helicopters, rescue teams, and K9 units deployed to hard-hit areas like Slovo Park and Decoligny Village. Meanwhile, schools, clinics, and roads across the province have sustained extensive damage, prompting urgent restoration work by engineering teams.