Press Release
29 January 2013
President Zuma sends words of solidarity to the Republic of Seychelles during the tropical depression
It is with great regret and sadness that President Jacob Zuma and the people of South Africa have learnt of the news of the tropical depression that hit Seychelles, devastating three districts of the Mahé Island on 27 January 2013.
The storm dealt a devastating blow to the developing country’s infrastructure, destroying homes, public buildings, agricultural land and livestock. Up to 350 families have been displaced or remain unsheltered as they wait for their homes to be rehabilitated. In the interim, the Government of Seychelles is assessing the damage in order to establish the immediate needs of the people.
Having noted the severe damage and destruction to the island-state caused by the heavy rains and high tide, South Africa which has also had parts of its country affected by severe flooding as a result of the unusual weather patterns, stands in solidarity with President James Michel and the people of Seychelles during these challenging times. We hope that the 350 affected families and the entire population of the Seychelles will unify in responding to this disaster as they have done previously.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, +27 82 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
|
