Riverlands flood victims move into new homes
At least one hundred people lost their homes and belongings when four dams collapsed, causing widespread flooding in August last year.
The first group of Riverlands flood victims has moved into new homes, six months after losing everything in devastating floods. Picture: Ntuthuzelo Nene/Eyewitness News
CAPE TOWN - The first group of Riverlands flood victims has finally moved into new homes six months after losing everything in devastating floods in the town
At least one hundred people lost their homes and belongings when four dams collapsed, causing widespread flooding in August last year.
They subsequently received shelter at a nearby church and a community centre.
It's been more than six months since the people had a place to call their home, following the devastating floods.
READ: Riverlands Disaster Steering Committee thrilled to see lives return to normal after floods
The Human Settlement Department has managed to build 28 temporary structures so far, and at least 14 of the flood victims have since moved into the new structures.
Desire Matthyse is one of the people who received keys to her new home last week.
"I'm relieved and happy about the space because it has been tough since August 8 until now. But myself, my children, and my husband are happy for the new house."
READ: Riverlands flood victims eagerly anticipating having their own homes again
The beneficiaries of the new structures have told Eyewitness News they now need electricity for their new homes.
Riverlands disaster steering committee member Shane Moses said they're relieved to see the people who lost everything in last year's floods finally get new homes.
Moses said while the committee is grateful for the progress made, more still needs to be done.
"Most of the beneficiaries have told the media that currently they are without electricity and water. We have also communicated this in the JOC [Joint Operation Committee]."