In response to the devastating floods in Eastern Cape, the Cape Town Ashraful Aid team embarked on a crucial relief mission to respond to devastation seen in the Eastern Cape where dwellings and shops, hundreds of families were evacuated providing hot meals, blankets, food hampers and sanitary packs.
Activated on Sunday morning, 02/06/24, the team comprised Ml. Shafiek Nolan, Ahmed Mehtar, Shafee Khan, and Sharief Ahmed, who set off for Uitenhage and Port Elizabeth, determined to deliver essential supplies to those in dire need.
The Journey Begins
The journey from Cape Town was long and arduous, taking approximately 12 hours due to the heavy vehicle loads and adverse weather conditions. Despite these challenges, the team remained resolute, knowing that their arrival would bring much-needed relief to the affected areas. They reached their destination at 6:00 AM on Monday morning, 03/06/24.
Initial Activities and Planning
Upon arrival, the team took a brief moment to refresh and have breakfast. Their nerve centre was established at the residence of Brother Husain Taladia, where they convened for an initial meeting. Here, they conducted a thorough needs assessment and meticulously planned their operations for the day.
Needs Assessment and Relief Distribution
First Location: Jones Street, Uitenhage
The team’s first stop was Jones Street in Uitenhage, where they witnessed extensive damage to homes, boundary walls, and vehicles. The scene was heartbreaking, but the team quickly sprang into action, distributing blankets, hygiene packs, and food hampers to the affected residents.
Second Location: Ward 48, Kabaa
Next, the team moved to Ward 48 in Kabaa. Here, they continued their distribution efforts, providing food hampers, hygiene packs, and blankets to those in need. The gratitude and relief on the faces of the recipients were palpable, reinforcing the importance of their mission.
Third Location: Masjiedul Haqq
At Masjiedul Haqq, the team encountered displaced residents who had taken shelter in the mosque. In addition to the residents, they also extended their support to the surrounding neighbors, distributing relief supplies to ensure that everyone received the help they required.
Evening Activities
As evening fell, the team returned to their nerve centre for debriefing and to make accommodation arrangements for the night. The day had been long and exhausting, but their spirits remained high, fueled by the impact they had made on the lives of those they had helped.
Coordination with Local Relief Groups
The following day, Thursday morning, 04/06/24, the Cape Town AA team met with local relief groups, including Al Imdaad and SANZAF, to coordinate their efforts. This meeting was crucial for planning further distribution and ensuring that all relief activities were conducted efficiently and effectively.
Further Distribution
Location: Kwanobuthle, Khayelitsha EC
The team then proceeded to Kwanobuthle in Khayelitsha EC, where they continued their distribution efforts. They had carried 350 hygiene packs, 350 food hampers, and 200 blankets from Cape Town, which they distributed to the flood-affected residents.
Summary
The Cape Town AA team successfully carried out its mission to provide immediate relief to flood victims in Uitenhage and surrounding areas. Their coordinated efforts with local groups ensured efficient distribution of essential supplies, bringing hope and comfort to those in desperate need. The team remains committed to monitoring the situation and continuing their support as required.
Recent reports indicate that over 1,200 people have been evacuated in Gqeberha due to heavy downpours and extensive flooding. The flooding has caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure, and the death toll has sadly risen to 10, including four children. The coordinated efforts of various aid organizations, have been critical in providing immediate relief to affected residents. The situation remains dire, and continued support and monitoring are essential to assist those displaced and affected by this natural disaster.
