Limpopo government admits it cannot handle flood disaster alone

The Limpopo government has conceded that it does not have the capacity to fully respond to the scale of flooding, as the province enters a fourth day of heavy rain.

This as the South African Weather Service has upgraded the warning to red level ten, the highest and most dangerous alert, signalling extreme weather conditions that pose a serious risk to life, infrastructure, and basic services.

The escalating crisis has drawn national attention, with President Cyril Ramaphosa expected to visit Limpopo on Thursday afternoon as communities wait for relief and government support.

In Giyani and the surrounding areas, the impact of the flooding is unmissable, with waterlogged streets, muddy yards, and homes struggling to drain as rain continues to fall.

Schools remain closed, several roads and bridges have been cut off, and essential services have been disrupted, with provincial officials admitting the damage has outpaced available equipment, personnel, and funding.

In Mbwula village outside Giyani, residents say they are waiting anxiously for the president’s arrival, hoping his visit will bring urgent intervention and long-term support.

This marks the first time COGTA MEC Basikopo Makamu has visited Giyani since the flooding began, as the government attempts to assess conditions on the ground and reassure affected communities.

 “Early hours of this morning, we rescued people at the border gate, which shows that we are ready, but I repeat our resources are not enough. Our people must also play a part and be cautious.”

Authorities say damage assessments are continuing as communities remain on edge under a red level ten warning and uncertainty over when conditions will improve.

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