Limpopo declared drought disaster area

According to the provincial government spokesperson, Phuti Seloba, a thorough assessment of the drought situation has found that all district and local municipalities in the province are facing the worst draught conditions recorded in years.

Seloba said the declaration will assist the Government to unlock the necessary resources to assist the affected communities.

He said currently, the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has set aside R3 million to assist affected farmers through the provision of livestock feed. However, he said the amount does not cover other areas such as human consumption.

“It is for this reason that executive committee is unlocking other avenues including the activation of the Drought Relief and Disaster Management Act of 2002,” he said.

He added that the Provincial Treasury and the National Department of Water and Sanitation will provide further assessments.

“We therefore urge all residents of Limpopo to heed all calls to use water sparingly, respect water restrictions and observe all guidelines to save water,” he said