KWAZULU-NATAL - Thembi Nkadimeng, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, is set to visit KwaZulu-Natal today to evaluate the destruction caused by severe storms that recently hit the region.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister's visit aims to inspect the damage firsthand in districts such as eThekwini, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, and uMkhanyakude. The department highlighted that Minister Nkadimeng, who also oversees National Disaster Management, will engage with stakeholders and various agencies actively providing relief to the storm-affected communities.

The recent storms have left considerable damage, displacing many and resulting in the deaths of at least 11 individuals, including seven from uThongathi, north of Durban, with others from Nquthu, Eshowe, and KwaHlabisa. In addition to the fatalities, over 55 people sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The Minister expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and extended wishes for a swift recovery to those injured. The government has affirmed its commitment to assist the affected individuals and support the ongoing humanitarian efforts led by various government agencies.

This visit follows Minister Nkadimeng and Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi's recent trip to the Eastern Cape, where they addressed the impacts of flooding in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, underscoring a continued governmental focus on disaster management across different provinces.