Premier Winde extends helping hand as Eastern Cape floods claim at least 78 lives
Hundreds of residents have been displaced in the town.
Eastern Cape authorities continue to provide healthcare services and emergency assistance to affected communities.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has extended a helping hand to his Eastern Cape counterpart, Oscar Mabuyane, after flooding claimed at least 78 lives.
The deadly deluge, which hit Mthatha the hardest, has left hundreds of residents displaced and a trail of infrastructure damage.
As the search for missing victims continues, President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to visit the area and assess the extent of damage on Friday.
Winde wrote on his social media pages on Thursday night that he was heartbroken at the ongoing devastation and loss of life.
'Many of our own residents have friends and loved ones in harm's way, and our hearts go out to those who have been affected.'
In his post, Winde said he had contacted Mabuyane to offer his and the Western Cape's condolences.
'I also reassured him that if they need any support or assistance with rescue efforts, we stand ready,' he wrote.
Speaking to News24 on Thursday, Mabuyane confirmed a telephone conversation with Winde.
'Yes, we have been speaking,' Mabuyane said.
Meanwhile, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa's oversight visit would start at the flood-affected sites in the Decoligny and Slovo Park villages.
The president would be accompanied by Cogta Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, Mabuyane and other senior government officials.
'President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the loss of lives and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, affected communities and Eastern Cape residents at large.
'The delegation will monitor progress on the response and will interact with affected communities on the government's support,' Magwenya said.
Eastern Cape government spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie said provincial authorities, working with municipalities and social partners, continued to provide essential services to affected residents.
'Primary healthcare services are being provided to displaced people, and emergency medical referrals are being coordinated where necessary,' said Rantjie.
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