A moment of silent was observed on Freedom Day for the victims who died in floods in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal while more support was promised by Eastern Cape premier Phumullo Masualle.
The victims were remembered by president Cyril Ramaphosa during the Freedom Day celebrations at Miki Yili stadium in Makhanda on Saturday. Seven people died in the Eastern Cape while 70 died in KZN during flooding after heavy rains battered the two provinces on Monday and Tuesday. Hundreds were left homeless when their houses were swept away.
"I would like us to raise and observe a moment of silence to show our respect to those who have died in the recent floods here in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Our thoughts are also with those who have perished in our sister countries  Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe," said Ramaphosa to thousands who filled the stadium.
Eastern Cape premier Phumullo Masualle commended president Ramaphosa for intervention he delivered to the victims of the floods in Port St Johns.
The president dispatched the South African Defence Force to the Eastern Cape coastal town on Tuesday to help evacuate and rescue the homeless. Those rescued were moved to higher grounds and sheltered in community halls and churches.Masualle said: "Mr President, it is unfortunate that the recent rain that we prayed for in the province came but brought damage and loss of lives in parts of the province. We would like to thank you for the intervention you have given us and we are looking forward to continue engaging further with you on this matter."At least 328 people were affected when about 100 houses were flooded in Port St Johns, according to preliminary reports. Local businesses donated food, blankets and home-cooked meals to the displaced.South Africa's neighbouring countries are also rebuilding after tropical cyclone Idia hit Mozambique and Zimbabwe last month killing hundreds and displacing more.malibongwed@dispatch.co.za..