Concerns are mounting over the Eastern Cape’s ability to effectively respond to natural disasters, as the Democratic Alliance (DA) reveals alarming shortcomings in the province’s disaster management systems. According to DA Eastern Cape leader Dr. Vicky Knoetze, only 14% of municipalities meet the required standards for disaster response, while the province struggles with severe underfunding, inadequate staffing, and a critical shortage of emergency vehicles.
A System on the Brink
Dr. Knoetze highlighted these issues during an interview following devastating floods that have left at least 90 people dead, 10,000 displaced, and over 2,600 homeless. The disaster has exposed glaring gaps in the province’s preparedness, with only:
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6 out of 10 Disaster Management Centres compliant.
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190 operational ambulances—just 26% of the required fleet.
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62 fire engines available, far below the needed 233.
“We are a disaster-prone province, yet we are chronically underprepared,” said Knoetze. “The Eastern Cape government has known for years that heavy rains and flooding are inevitable, yet there is no effective early warning system, and disaster management remains severely underfunded.”
Premier’s Response Under Scrutiny
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, who visited flood-stricken areas in the OR Tambo and Amathole districts, has blamed slow response times on limited resources, including relying on only one South African Police Service (SAPS) helicopter for rescue operations. However, the DA argues that the provincial government has failed to prioritize disaster readiness, with only R11 million allocated from a R1.66 billion COGTA budget for disaster management.
Calls for Accountability and Immediate Action
With a provincial day of mourning set to honor flood victims, Knoetze has called for:
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A provincial state of disaster to unlock emergency funds.
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Transparent tracking of relief money to prevent mismanagement, citing past failures where disaster funds were misused.
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A coordinated “whole of society” approach, involving NGOs like Gift of the Givers and the NSRI, to assist stranded communities—some of whom have reportedly faced extortion while seeking aid.
Auditor-General Intervention Needed
The DA has urged for real-time audits of flood relief spending, similar to those implemented after the 2022 KwaZulu-Natal floods, to ensure funds reach those in need. “We cannot allow corruption to divert resources when lives are at stake,” Knoetze emphasized.
A Humanitarian Crisis Unfolding
As mop-up operations continue, thousands remain in community halls and shelters, lacking food, blankets, and permanent housing. With more heavy rains predicted, the Eastern Cape’s ability to respond to future disasters remains in serious doubt—unless urgent systemic reforms are implemented.
For now, the province’s most vulnerable residents are left asking: When the next disaster strikes, will help arrive in time?
