The MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Treasury, also ANC Provincial Chairperson Oscar Mabuyane put on his gumboots and joined the well-coordinated efforts of various institutions dealing with the flood situation in Port St Johns.

The Silaka Nature Reserve, owned and operated by the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency, has come on board to provide accommodation for displaced residents at its picturesque lodge.

“It is very important that as government we go beyond just mere blankets and food parcels but ensure that our people are properly accommodated”, said Mabuyane.

In the picture he is seen with Luthando Bara, owner of Pholela Lodge which also shut its paid bookings to provide accommodation for families with infants and the infirm elderly.

Rain has continued to fall incessantly over the past three days, compounding an already dicy situation for people living close to river banks. The coastal provinces of KZN and Eastern Cape have been most affected, with KZN registering more than 20 flood-related deaths.