The confirmed news of the recovery of the body of Cllr Andile Mngwevu, Member of Mayoral Committee for Roads and Transport Planning and Leader of Government Business in the City of Ekurhuleni and of those who had gone missing with him is yet another stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate-related disasters.

Mngwevu and his companions were declared missing a week ago following an incident in Mozambique, where a vehicle in which they were travelling was swept away by floodwaters.

This tragedy comes at a time when our country and parts of the Southern African Development Community region (Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe) has been experiencing intensifying climate-related disasters, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and deadly. In recent weeks alone, more than 40 people have lost their lives in Limpopo and Mpumalanga as heavy rains and flooding continued to devastate communities.

The South African Local Government Association conveys its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues and friends of those who lost their lives due to the floods. We extend our heartfelt sympathies. May they find strength and comfort during this difficult time.