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The South African government has declared a national disaster following severe weather conditions that affected several provinces between 16 and 28 February 2025. This announcement was made in the Government Gazette of 7 March 2025. Dr Elias Sithole, head of the National Disaster Management Centre, made the announcement after consulting with various government bodies and provincial disaster management centres. The weather system, which included heavy rains, thunderstorms, floods, and strong winds, caused significant damage in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, and Gauteng provinces.
The severe weather led to the loss of life, destruction of property and infrastructure, and disruptions to essential services. In response to the extent of the damage, Dr Sithole has classified the event as a national disaster under Section 23 of the Disaster Management Act (Act No. 57 of 2002).
Immediate actions and responsibilities
Following the declaration, Dr Sithole emphasised the need for a coordinated response. The National Executive has been assigned the responsibility to manage and lead the disaster response efforts, in line with the country’s disaster management protocols.
He also called on government bodies to strengthen existing disaster response structures and ensure effective collaboration across all levels. Additionally, Dr Sithole recommended that the National Executive, provincial governments, and local councils implement a joint relief and recovery plan to assist those affected by the disaster. This plan will aim to address the immediate needs of communities, rebuild damaged infrastructure, and provide ongoing support for the recovery process.
To monitor the progress of relief efforts, Dr Sithole requested that each government department, along with non-governmental organisations and local communities, submit regular updates on their actions and outcomes.
TLU SA Limpopo welcomes declaration
The announcement has been welcomed by TLU SA Limpopo, which had been calling for disaster recognition following a series of environmental challenges. Fanie Havinga, the chairperson of TLU SA Limpopo, expressed relief that the province has finally been recognised as a disaster area.
Havinga explained that Limpopo has faced multiple setbacks, including a black frost in July 2024, devastating fires, and a prolonged drought that lasted until December 2024. Despite efforts to have the province declared a disaster area in the past, no official action was taken. Farmers were left to deal with the aftermath on their own. “We hope that this time there will be real support for commercial farmers,” said Havinga. “In the past, these farmers have often been overlooked when it comes to receiving assistance.”
Havinga also appealed to financial institutions to assist commercial farmers who have been affected by three major disasters in a single year. He stressed the importance of supporting these farmers to ensure food security in the province and the country as a whole. – Elmarie Smit, Plaas Media
Read more about flood damage in the North West here: https://agriorbit.com/noordwes-produsente-steier-steeds-onder-vloedskade/
