At least four Zimbabweans are reported to have died following heavy rains and floods that hit South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province over the past few days.
Several other Zimbabweans are feared missing as the death toll hits 306.
Confirming the development, Chairman of the Zimbabwe Community in South Africa, Nqabutho Mabhena, revealed that a couple from Harare and two other people, one from Mutare and the other from Karoi perished in Pinetown near Durban when a house they were living in collapsed.
“The couple had settled in the area from Harare, while two more people are from Mutare and Karoi.
As an organisation, we want to convey our heartfelt condolences to the grieving families.
So, far we are making all available plans to help them so that they get a decent burial,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s Consul-General to Johannesburg Melody Chaurura said they have received reports that some Zimbabweans perished during the floods and mudslides but are yet to verify the total number with the South African government.
“We have received reports on our people who have died in KwaZulu Natal.
However, at this point, we cannot tell the total number or their identity since we are still verifying these reports with our host.
As the consulate, we are ready to help those who were affected to make the repatriation of their remains seamless.
The phenomenon has been dubbed the deadliest weather event in SA’s history.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe has become one of the first countries to convey condolences to SA. Taking to his Twitter account on Wednesday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa shared his sympathies.
“Horrifying news from SA today. My deepest sympathies to all those affected by the flooding and to the great people of SA,” said Mnangagwa.
