Reports from South Africa indicate that at least four Zimbabweans are among the 306 people who have been killed following the deadliest floods that have hit the Kwazulu-Natal Province in the neighboring southern African nation.
While confirming the development, Chairman of the Zimbabwe Community in South Africa, Nqabutho Mabhena, said several other Zimbabweans are feared missing following the catastrophic flooding that have hit the KZN Province over the past few days.
According to Mabhena, a couple from Harare and other two people who include a person from Mutare and another, from Karoi are the casualties of what has been described as the ‘deadliest’ weather event in the history of South Africa.
“The couple had settled in the area from Harare, while two more people are from Mutare and Karoi. As an organisation, we want to convey our heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. So, far we are making all available plans to help them so that they get a decent burial,” said Mabhena.
Melody Chaurura, who is Zimbabwe’s Consul-General to Johannesburg reported that they are yet to confirm the figures of Zimbabweans whop have succumbed to the floods, saying:
“We have received reports on our people who have died in KwaZulu Natal. However, at this point, we cannot tell the total number or their identity since we are still verifying these reports with our host. As the consulate, we are ready to help those who were affected to make the repatriation of their remains seamless.”
Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday conveyed his condolence message to South Africa, tweeting:
“Horrifying news from SA today. My deepest sympathies to all those affected by the flooding and to the great people of SA”.
Since the turn of the 21st Century when Zimbabwe’s economic fortunes waned following a chaotic land reform program under late despot Robert Mugabe, there was an exodus of people from the troubled landlocked Sadc nation who made the great trek down south in search of greener pastures.
Zwnews
