Date: 08/10/2003
Source: Western Cape Provincial Government
Title: Dowry: National Disaster Risk Reduction Week & International Day for Disaster Reduction


STATEMENT BY COBUS DOWRY, MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RESPONSIBLE FOR DISASTER MANAGEMENT IN THE WESTERN CAPE

WATER: TOO LITTLE TOO MUCH TODAY IS INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR DISASTER REDUCTION

One day in the year (2nd Wednesday in October) the emphasis is on disaster management. On this day awareness is created on certain aspects of disaster management. This is part of an awareness programme with regards to disaster management and threats to the environment.

The National Disaster Management Committee has decided to adopt the following theme for the National Disaster Management Day falling on 8 October this year: "Water: too much - too little - leading causes of natural disasters".

This year we have had in South Africa and in the Western Cape, with its many contrasts, examples of TOO MUCH WATER in the Robertson, Ashton, Montagu and Swellendam area, which resulted in floods. We also had the experience of TOO LITTLE WATER in the West Coast, which had severe implications for the farmers of this area.

With this years theme the community can be made aware of, for instance, the causes and impacts of floods. Where floods can occur as a result of heavy rains, pro-active steps should be taken where possible to reduce the risk of floods to the minimum. The increasing extent of disastrous flooding can be explained by various factors, including growing urban population, denser occupancy of flood plains and other flood-prone areas, as well as the expansion of unwise forms of watershed land use. In the period 1980-2001 a total of 163,471 deaths were associated with the occurrence of floods worldwide.

It is very difficult to determine the impact of droughts because it has a slow and protracted impact on a community. In the period 1980-2001, it is estimated that worldwide, 560 300 people died as a result of droughts. South Africa is categorised as one of 20 countries in the world with the largest water shortage. The technological development in South Africa coupled with the population growth can create chronic water shortages. South Africa also has very limited capabilities to increase its water supply.

It is therefore necessary to create awareness on the importance of water savings and water restrictions and proactive measures to prevent flooding in residential areas. Water pollution can also be reported to the nearest regional office of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.

Disaster management is a key bridge builder between a community and its local government. It has enormous potential if it is properly resourced and utilised. In the Western Cape we aim to create peace of mind and trust in the different spheres of government with disaster management.

Enquiries: Jan Bosman, 083 775 5312
Issued by: Ministry of Local Government, Western Cape Provincial Government
8 October 2003