Humanitarian organization Oxfam, in partnership with Action Aid South Africa and City Hope, has begun distributing food aid to communities devastated by June’s deadly floods in Mthatha. Over 100 people lost their lives, and hundreds of families were displaced after torrential rains wreaked havoc in the region.
Oxfam’s interim executive director, Nkateko Chauke, outlined the relief efforts, which include food packs for schoolchildren, nutritional support for 200 babies, and psychosocial care for traumatized survivors. A needs assessment revealed that 4,780 individuals and 1,300 households were affected by the disaster.
Chauke emphasized the need for long-term solutions, criticizing delays in government aid—only 20 of 400 promised shelters have been built. She called for transparent communication from the state and stronger disaster preparedness policies to address recurring climate-induced crises.
The intervention coincides with Women’s Day, with Oxfam integrating gender-based violence support into its response. The organization urges coordinated action to ensure equitable recovery for vulnerable communities.
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