Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has implored municipalities to ensure that the funds allocated for disasters are only meant for such purposes.
Hlabisa was addressing the media in Sandton, on the details of the funds released to municipalities and provinces for disaster interventions following the various snowfall and floods that occurred in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and the severely affected Eastern Cape.
Last month, a total of 107 people died due to disasters, 103 in the Eastern Cape, three in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape.
The Minister said the Disaster Management Act highlights the importance of self-funding for disaster risk management, which requires state organisations to use their own resources for disaster interventions.
According to Hlabisa, in instances where public infrastructure is damaged, the relevant state organ bears the responsibility for financing the repair costs.
The Minister said the overarching goal of the Act is to prevent and mitigate disaster risks, necessitating the implementation of effective disaster management practices and the development of comprehensive contingency plans.
“With regards to disaster grants, adherence to Section 12 of the Division of Revenue Act is crucial.
The funds disbursed must be used exclusively for sanctioned purposes and may not be redirected to unrelated expenditures, such as employee travel.
The Municipal Disaster Recovery Grant is contingent upon specific conditions that municipalities are required to follow, including compliance with various regulations, such as the DORA and the Municipal Financial Management Act,” said Hlabisa.
Furthermore, the Minister cautioned that after the National Disaster Management Centre transfers funds, municipalities are expected to use these resources promptly.
Hlabisa stressed that the recipients of the “funds must follow established reporting protocols and use the required templates to ensure accountability in their financial disclosures.”
Meanwhile, the minister urged communities in affected areas to remain alert and follow early warning advisories issued by the South African Weather Service, as a critical measure to safeguard lives, property, and livelihoods.
