08 Jan 2025

A total of 77 people from 23 households impacted by severe rainfall experienced in Selebi Phikwe on Sunday night have received essential assistance to help them cope with the aftermath.

During the Disaster Management Committee meeting on Monday, Selebi Phikwe District Commissioner, Ms Boikhutso Matenge said assessments and evaluations had been conducted at the most hit hard wards of Ikageleng, Botshabelo south, Botshabelo north and Kagiso.

She noted that assistance including food basket and other essentials items worth P8 000 had been distributed to cushion those affected. 

The heavy rains had caused damage in some homesteads leaving other houses submerged in water. Internal roads were also  temporary closed.

However, despite the magnitude of damage, authorities acted swiftly and helped those in need, Ms Matenge said.

She  said although none of the people affected were relocated from their homesteads, the committee had secured housing at Selebi Phikwe Education Centre and set up more tents for any eventualities.

Officials will also be on the ground to conduct additional assessment and provide assistance as needed, she said.

She attributed flooding in some homesteads to poor  drainage system. She said most culverts had a narrow end and do not have the capacity to handle water when full while some were clogged with pebbles and mud. Also, she said  some yards had screen walls that prevented water flow. BOPA