Quake victims grateful for assistance

North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has declared parts of the province a disaster area so that it can assist residents affected by the earthquake that destroyed homes in various parts of the province. Image: North West Provincial Government

"I'm really glad that the provincial government has been with us since that terrible day. Relief in the form of food parcels and cooked meals have been provided since the earthquake, and donations from aid organisation Gift of the Givers, is even more appreciated," said Helena Maria, 64, from Stilfontein, in the North West.

She was speaking during the distribution of social relief packages provided for all affected communities by the Gift of the Givers, a disaster relief foundation. The distribution took place at Khuma Community Hall.

The packages included 1,000 hygiene packs, 1,000 food parcels, 1,000 clothing packs, 1,000 vegetable packs and 2,000 sweet packs.

Furthermore, delivery of 100 bags of cement and 100 sheets of corrugated iron are expected as a contribution by Gift of the Givers towards the repairing and rebuilding of affected houses.

Gift of the Givers responds

The offer from Gift of the Givers followed a call made by the North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo for citizens and interested organisations to provide donations in any form.

Welcoming the delivery of the relief packages, MEC for Department of Rural, Environment and Agricultural Development, Manketsi Tlhape, said the humanitarian contribution made by Gift of the Givers must not be left unrecognised.

"The provincial government is grateful for all the work done by Gift of the Givers, especially in our province because every time we make a call for their generous help, they respond immediately and positively.

"We thank them heartily for the donation, as it will go a long way towards maintaining good health among the affected communities," said Tlhape.

Mahumapelo has since declared a State of Provincial Disaster for parts of North West most affected by the quake and will provide relief to affected communities in Khuma, Kanana, Vaal Reefs, Tigane and Jouberton townships falling within the Matlosana Local Municipality.

Tlhape, said a report on the damaged structures and and estimate of the repair costs will be completed by the end of this week.