The death toll from the deadly floods in Eastern Cape, South Africa, has now climbed to 94 after two more bodies were discovered on Sunday in Mthatha. The disaster, which began more than two weeks ago, has left thousands of people homeless and communities shattered.
According to the well-known humanitarian group, Gift of the Givers, the bodies were found by a local resident who alerted emergency teams immediately. Mr Ahmed Bham, the organisation’s head of search and rescue, confirmed the news: “Two bodies were found, males, yesterday afternoon in Mthatha. Bodies were recovered by search and rescue teams,” he told the press.
Heavy rains and floods that battered the Eastern Cape province have caused widespread destruction. The government said 4,308 people have lost their homes and are now depending on emergency relief services. Temporary shelters are being set up as a top priority while teams also work on rebuilding damaged roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.
Eastern Cape Premier, Mr Oscar Mabuyane, has called for urgent support. “All three spheres of government are working flat out to help,” he said. The Premier added that support has started arriving from both local and international donors, NGOs, and private individuals.
The floods affected several towns, but the situation in Mthatha remains one of the worst. Many areas were completely cut off, and some residents were trapped on rooftops for hours before help arrived. Entire families have been left with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
As rescue operations continue, many families are still looking for their missing loved ones. Search teams are working around the clock, using boats, drones, and dogs to cover areas where people may have been swept away. Emergency workers say the muddy waters, broken roads, and debris make the job difficult and slow.
In response to the loss of life, a day of mourning was held in Mthatha last Thursday. Families gathered in prayer and remembrance of those who died. Emotional scenes unfolded as names of victims were read out and candles lit in their memory. Government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the clergy joined the memorial event.
The Eastern Cape government says the scale of the disaster is still being assessed. Many communities remain unreachable, and damaged communication lines have made coordination tough. Relief agencies say food, clean water, and clothing are still urgently needed.
Premier Mabuyane said teams are also working to provide psychological support to survivors, especially children who have been traumatised by the loss of their homes or parents. “We are not only dealing with physical damage, but emotional wounds as well,” he said.
The Department of Human Settlements has sent teams to identify safe places for temporary housing. Schools, community halls, and churches have been turned into makeshift shelters for now. The South African Weather Service has warned of possible further rains, which could worsen the situation if drainage systems are not cleared quickly.
Local NGOs, community leaders, and religious organisations have joined hands with government bodies to offer food, blankets, and medical care. Volunteers have been seen cooking meals, sorting clothes, and helping families register for support.
Residents across South Africa have started donation drives to help those affected. Clothing, non-perishable food, and toiletries are being collected in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and other cities. Gift of the Givers and the South African Red Cross are among the main organisations coordinating these efforts.
Though the road to recovery will be long, communities are showing strong unity and resilience. For now, authorities are focusing on recovery, shelter, and preventing the spread of disease in overcrowded camps.
Anyone who knows of missing persons or who can assist with donations is urged to contact the nearest local municipality or recognised relief organisation. Updates will continue as the situation develops.
