Cape Town - Government has set aside R800m for immediate relief to assist communities affected by the recent floods in the north of the country, President Jacob Zuma announced on Thursday.
In his state of the nation address to parliament, he said that as the country prepared for the upcoming local government elections, the country had been struck by devastating floods in recent weeks, and many families had been affected.
"We extend heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Our hearts also go out to those who were injured and who lost all their belongings.
"Let me use this opportunity to announce that government has set aside R800m for immediate relief to assist communities."
Funds will also be earmarked to deal with post-disaster recovery and reconstruction in the years ahead.
"We thank relief agencies, non-governmental organisations, private sector, religious organisations and communities for assisting those in need," Zuma said.
In his state of the nation address to parliament, he said that as the country prepared for the upcoming local government elections, the country had been struck by devastating floods in recent weeks, and many families had been affected.
"We extend heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Our hearts also go out to those who were injured and who lost all their belongings.
"Let me use this opportunity to announce that government has set aside R800m for immediate relief to assist communities."
Funds will also be earmarked to deal with post-disaster recovery and reconstruction in the years ahead.
"We thank relief agencies, non-governmental organisations, private sector, religious organisations and communities for assisting those in need," Zuma said.