SALGA calls for urgent reform of SA's disaster management framework

THE South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has issued a clarion call for accelerated national action to modernise the country’s disaster management framework.

- SIPHO JACK

The plea comes in the wake of devastating incidents like the recent wildfires in the Eastern Cape and severe flooding affecting parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, which have wreaked havoc on communities, affected biodiversity, and livelihoods across the nation.

As South Africa grapples with increasing climate related disasters, municipalities tasked with being the first responders find themselves at the forefront, and struggling to manage the incidents with their limited resources.

The recent tragedies have underscored this point, with more than 30 lives being lost to flooding as at January 17.

The SALGA extended its heartfelt condolences to the families and communities affected by these calamities.