HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sent a condolence message to the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, following the loss of 259 lives to floods in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
In a statement on Wednesday, Mnangagwa said:
“I have been deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of more than 259 lives in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, leaving many more people and communities homeless and destitute following three days of torrential rains.
“I watched with absolute horror as many settlements and homes were Mooded and swept away, with vital infrastructure, principally buildings, roads and bridges getting damaged.
“Weather forecasts pointing to more rains into the weekend suggest no respite for affected communities.
“On behalf of Government and the People of Zimbabwe, and indeed on my behalf, I wish to extend my deepest, heartfelt condolences to you, my dear brother, and through you, Comrade President, to the Government and People of South Africa, on this terrible tragedy that has befallen our people.
“In particular, we extend and convey our prayers and sympathies to the families which have lost their beloved ones in this natural disaster which is traceable to climate change.
“We hope the rains will ebb soon, thus giving the affected communities a chance to pick up the pieces once more.
“The People of Zimbabwe stand by you in this hour of bereavement and great need.”
