Johannesburg, South Africa (ADV) – The South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Lindiwe Sisulu, has appealed to South African Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), companies and individuals to make donations towards humanitarian aid for the people of Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique affected by Tropical Cyclone Idai.
On Thursday, a powerful cyclone tore through Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe destroying roads, bridges and homes and left more than 200 people dead and tens of thousands displaced.
According to the United Nations, about 1.5 million people in total have been affected by Cyclone Idai’s torrential rains and winds that have reached speeds of up to 200 kilometers, or 124 miles, per hour.
The U.N last week that 122 people had died in Mozambique and Malawi prior to Cyclone Idai’s landfall as a result of flooding caused by the tropical cyclone’s weather system. At least 60 more died after the storm made landfall, the U.N. said citing unverified media reports.
In Zimbabwe, an additional 70 people were confirmed dead on Sunday, according to government officials.
Sisulu, on behalf of the people of South Africa, sent a message of condolences to the people of Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique and wished those in hospital speedy recovery.
“We have directed all our Embassies and Diplomats to continue to work with the three countries to assess the damage” said Sisulu.
“We have this afternoon received reports from our Missions and our teams on the ground who are working with authorities, what is urgent now is the provision of humanitarian aid.”
The Minister urged any South Africans affected by the floods to contact the Embassies or call the 24-hour DIRCO call centre on 0123511000.
Companies, NGOs and individuals who are able to assist are requested to contact the following officials:
- Matheko Rametsi
+27 81 037 2765
- Surprise Malehase
+27 83 700 7946
The Hashtag for the Urgent Donation call by the Minister is #CycloneIdaiHumanitarian2019
© Bur-JHB –M.C– African Daily Voice (ADV) – Follow us on Twitter : @ADVinfo_eng
