Issued by: Ministry for Provincial Affairs and Constitutional Development
Mr MV Moosa, Minister for Provincial Affairs and Constitutional Development, today declared a state of disaster in the magisterial districts of Ladybrand, Ficksburg, Wepener, Fouriesburg, Zastron and Clocolan in the Free State Province in terms of the Civil Protection Act, 1977, as amended.
The number of refugees from Lesotho in the country at the moment is estimated at 4 000 and a larger influx of refugees is expected resulting from lack of infrastructure, income and food in Lesotho. Bordering South African towns may not have the ability and capacity to keep up with the influx of people. Sine most of the refugees may not have a home, work or family to go back to, even after the normalisation of the situation, in Lesotho, it is anticipated that a prolonged stay of refugees will be inevitable.
The Provincial Disaster Management Committee of the Free State has taken charge of the operation with the assistance of all role players such as the Departments of Home Affairs, Health, Welfare and Population Development, the SANDF and other Non Government Organisations. Everything possible is being done to get the situation under control and to minimise the effects of the disaster. The declaration of a state of disaster, however, empowers the disaster management organisations to perform their tasks effectively.
Minister MV Moosa expressed his deepest sympathy with the families affected by the situation in Lesotho. He believes that, as in the past, these events will be surmounted by inner strength and faith. He also extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone who assist and supports the communities in the areas.
ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY FOR PROVINCIAL AFFAIRS AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT 25 September 1998
Enquiries: Mr PA Stopforth Tel. No: (012) 334 0709 Cell: 082 808 9878