All hands on deck for drought relief – Zuma
Capacity crowd braves rain and mud to listen to President Jacob Zuma speak at drought relief Imbizo
WITH KZN dubbed the second worst affected drought region after Limpopo, President Jacob Zuma has reaffirmed government’s hands-on approach to drought relief in Zululand.
The president made the announcement at a special Imbizo in Melmoth yesterday, which saw a capacity crowd braving inclement weather conditions to hear the country’s top brass speak.
Zuma spoke about the national effect of the drought, adding that the climate change phenomenon had adversely affected rainfall patterns.
‘The converse of the drought is expected to be serious floods which could have devastating effects on all livelihoods. In this regard, we are here as the collective of government to stand with the community, knowing that there are a lot of other affected groups.’
The president further emphasised that even though it was raining, it did not signal the end of drought relief efforts.
The event, hosted by KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu and Deputy Minister of Water Pamela Tshwete, was aimed at finding drought relief strategies for the stricken uThungulu District.
‘We are all aware of the difficulties that communities are experiencing owing to the current drought,’ said Premier Mchunu in his welcoming address.
‘It is all hands on deck as all three tiers of government are in co-operation to seek for and bring relief to the affected communities. We are also grateful for the continued support by national government in this regard.’
The crowd of around 10 000 strong braved driving rain throughout the day to listen to the president speak, but many left as soon as he took his seat.
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