Chairperson, on behalf of the government of the Northern Cape, I wish to express our sincere condolences to those communities that were so tragically struck by the recent floods.
We understand the suffering they had to endure, because our province itself was not spared the effects of this natural disaster. Some of our communities were completely cut off from the outside world for many days owing to the flooding of many of our bridges and roads. This human catastrophe taught us a few valuable lessons. Natural disasters are not geographically confined. They affect people across provincial boundaries. It is important, therefore, that provinces and the national Government work together and plan strategies which could be speedily implemented.
Furthermore, it is essential that we develop the capacity to pick up and constantly monitor any impending disasters so that we can be able to take steps before we are struck by these disasters.
We are heartened by the response of many people who expressed concern and were willing to extend a helping hand to the victims of the floods. It has reaffirmed our belief in the inherent goodness of human nature. [Applause.]