By Thokozani Mazibuko
Local leaders and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have mobilized resources to assist families recently affected by a devastating hailstorm in the area.
Under the leadership of Member of Parliament Nathi ‘Mdockies’ Hlophe and NDMA CEO Victor Mahlalela, a team has begun distributing essential roofing materials to help restore homes.
The hailstorm wreaked havoc last week, leaving numerous families displaced and vulnerable. In response to this emergency, the team donated vital materials, including zinc sheets, lumber, tents, and nails, to address the urgent needs of those impacted.
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Mahlalela emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “We are coordinating visits to assess the situation and provide assistance to families in all severely affected areas, such as Ntfonjeni, Malindza, and Mafutseni.”
Describing the devastation witnessed during their visits, Mahlalela shared a poignant account of one family whose home was destroyed, leaving them homeless.
The team acted swiftly, providing a tent for immediate shelter before returning with the necessary roofing materials.
He noted, “The most urgent need for many families was repairing their damaged roofs. We will continue to visit more families to ensure that assistance is ongoing.”
MP Hlophe echoed these sentiments, commending the NDMA for their rapid response and expressing gratitude towards the Mtfongwaneni residents for their support in identifying those in need.
“We wanted to ensure that the affected families felt safe and secure by providing them with a solid roof over their heads,” he stated.
Among the families selected for assistance was elderly resident Tigcebe Dlamini. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she expressed her appreciation to the MP and the NDMA for their timely intervention.
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“I can now rest more peacefully knowing that the roof of our home would be restored. Words cannot express my joy and relief,” she said with tears of gratitude in her eyes.
It should be noted that as the team continues to assess the extent of the damage and distribute materials, the community of Mtfongwaneni remains hopeful for a swift recovery.
The collaboration between local leaders, the NDMA, and community members serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of this close-knit community as they work together to rebuild their lives and homes.
