The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has intensified its response to recent devastating floods, with COGTA MEC Zolile Williams leading a high-level oversight visit to affected communities in and around Mthatha this week. The visit aimed to assess relief operations and reinforce the government's commitment to supporting displaced families.

Accompanied by OR Tambo District Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Mesuli Ngqondwana, and the Executive Mayor of King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality, Councillor Nyaniso Nelani, MEC Williams inspected all eight Community Care Centres (CCCs) currently housing residents.

The multidisciplinary team deployed on the ground evaluated the distribution of essential supplies like food, blankets, and hygiene packs, as well as the provision of health and psychosocial services by government and NGO partners.

During engagements, community members expressed appreciation for the support they have been provided but raised urgent concerns about the need for more durable and dignified housing solutions. In response, MEC Williams confirmed that municipalities have identified suitable land for the erection of temporary housing structures as part of a broader resettlement plan.

"This oversight visit is not just a formality; it is about responding with urgency, compassion, and coordination to rebuild lives and communities," said MEC Williams. "We are working with all stakeholders to ensure no one is left behind."

The visit forms part of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government s broader strategy to ensure integrated and coordinated support to affected communities and reinforced government s commitment to building resilient communities in the face of the disaster.