Ekurhuleni MMC Andile Mngwevu Missing After Mozambique Floods
Johannesburg – Andile Mngwevu, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport Management in Ekurhuleni, is missing after the vehicle he was travelling in was swept away by floodwaters in Mozambique on Saturday. The City of Ekurhuleni confirmed the distressing news on Sunday, prompting an immediate response from South African authorities.
Mngwevu was in the Chokwé area of southern Mozambique when the incident occurred. Chokwé, a region prone to flooding during the rainy season, has been experiencing particularly heavy rainfall in recent days, leading to dangerous conditions.
According to a statement released by the City of Ekurhuleni, information received through official diplomatic and security channels indicates that a South African rescue mission has been deployed to Mozambique. The rescue team has reportedly made contact with one of the five people who were travelling in the vehicle at the time of the incident.
"The status and whereabouts of MMC Mngwevu and the other occupants remain unconfirmed at this stage," the City said in its statement. The South African mission is actively engaging with local Mozambican authorities and emergency services in the affected area to coordinate search and rescue efforts.
The South African rescue mission is facing challenging conditions on the ground, with continued rainfall and widespread flooding hampering their efforts. The vastness of the affected area and the potential for debris and submerged hazards are also complicating the search.
In the wake of the incident, the Office of the Executive Mayor, in collaboration with the national government, has provided support to Mngwevu's spouse, who arrived in Mozambique on Saturday night. This support includes logistical assistance and coordination with local authorities.
National authorities are also exploring additional support measures, including security and evacuation assistance, as more information becomes available. The South African government is working closely with its Mozambican counterparts to ensure that all possible resources are deployed to locate Mngwevu and the other missing individuals.
The City of Ekurhuleni has stated that it is "in close contact with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and other relevant national structures" to ensure a coordinated response to the situation.
The City has pledged to provide further updates through official channels as soon as confirmed information is received. The statement concluded with an expression of hope for a positive outcome and a commitment to providing support to the families of all those affected.
The disappearance of MMC Mngwevu has prompted an outpouring of concern from colleagues, political figures, and the public. Many have expressed their support for the ongoing search and rescue efforts and offered their thoughts and prayers to Mngwevu and his family during this difficult time. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather events and the importance of preparedness and vigilance in flood-prone areas.
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