TLU SA Limpopo welcomes provincial premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba’s request to President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare Limpopo a disaster area. This request follows a series of devastating storms that recently struck parts of Limpopo, causing extensive damage. Numerous structures were damaged, including roofs blown off homes and churches, as well as electrical poles, wires, and water pipes that now require repair.
“We fully support the premier in her plea,” says Fanie Havinga, chairman of TLU SA Limpopo. “However, we believe the focus should extend beyond just the recent storm damage.”
Since July this year, TLU SA Limpopo has been in discussions with the provincial disaster management team regarding the devastating black frost that hit three times in the first week of July, causing severe damage to crops like potatoes, berries, citrus, avocados, papayas, and nuts. Shortly after, destructive fires compounded the existing damage caused by the frost.
“We have been advocating since then for Limpopo to be declared a disaster area so that essential relief can be provided to commercial and emerging farmers, as the recovery process is difficult and time-consuming. Despite initial good cooperation from Dr Makananisa, head of disaster management, and our participation in a national meeting on the matter, nothing has come of it yet,” Havinga adds.
In her submission to the president, the premier also highlighted the severe drought currently affecting the region and underscored the indispensable role of agriculture in Limpopo.
“For this reason, it is essential that a state of disaster is declared as soon as possible, covering not only the storm damage but also the devastation caused by black frost and fires, which was likely even greater than the recent storm damage. We stand ready to support the premier on behalf of the province’s commercial farmers,” concludes Havinga.
