Over R1.4 billion distributed to disaster-affected provinces and municipalities across the country

JOHANNESBURG - The government has distributed over R1.4 billion to disaster-stricken areas across the country. 

Several provinces have been hit by floods, heavy rains and other natural disasters since the beginning of the year. 

Natural disasters across the country have claimed 40 lives since December 2024.

The province with the highest death toll is KwaZulu-Natal with 22 people having lost their lives due to bad weather. 

Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday afternoon, Corporate governance minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa said the frequency of these disasters posed a huge threat to human life, the economy and environment. 

“Though we grieve the loss of 40 lives and the damage inflicted on infrastructure, homes and livelihood, in KZN, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Free State, Mpumalanga, North West and Gauteng, we must turn our attention to recovery and improving our preparedness for future challenges.”

Hlabisa said the allocated funds had been divided between the provinces and 60 affected municipalities.

READ: Floods and mudslides claim lives in KZN