EC govt says urgent mission to house flood-displaced families in full swing
Floodwaters have ravaged more than 6,800 households, leaving at least 4,000 people without homes.
A house in ruins due to flooding in the Eastern Cape on 11 June 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - While long-term housing is on the horizon for communities in the Eastern Cape affected by the devastating floods, the provincial government said it's in full swing with its urgent mission to house hundreds of displaced families.
Floodwaters have ravaged more than 6,800 households, leaving at least 4,000 people without homes.
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Provincial spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie said a dedicated resettlement site has been secured in New Rest, located close to Butterworth CBD.
The Eastern Cape government said 32 families sheltered in mass centres and receiving essential humanitarian aid have been prioritised for temporary residential units.
Spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie said suitable land has been identified in King Sabata Dalindyebo and Mnquma municipalities, with construction underway for more than a thousand residential units.
“The construction of temporary residential units is at an advanced stage in Butterworth, with 28 being ready for occupation. The installation of all TRU's will be completed on the 7th of August 2025.”
She said some units have been donated by the Development Bank of Southern Africa, the national Department of Human Settlements, including civil society partners.
“Measurable progress has been made in identifying and securing land parcels in the areas, including Mayden Farm, KwaLink Tractor, Old Transkei Meat Industry and Old Enkululekweni. The government has ensured that land is earmarked within the proximity to essential services, such as schools, clinics, and transport routes.”
The recent floods have also partially damaged another 2,145 dwellings.