0
0
South Africa has deployed a rescue team to assist in the search for a local politician who was swept away by floodwaters while visiting neighbouring Mozambique, as severe flooding continues to affect the region.
Andile Mngwevu, a councillor in South Africa’s Ekurhuleni municipality east of Johannesburg, was travelling with four others in Mozambique’s Gaza province when their vehicle was caught in fast-moving floodwaters, officials said.
Authorities have confirmed that only one passenger has been found so far. The whereabouts of the remaining occupants, including Mngwevu, remain unknown, according to a statement from the Ekurhuleni municipality.
The floods have caused widespread devastation in Mozambique and parts of South Africa, forcing emergency responses across both countries. Mozambican President Daniel Chapo cancelled his planned trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos to oversee the crisis.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that two helicopters have been deployed to support rescue operations in Mozambique. He said the aircraft will remain on standby for several days as authorities work to stabilise the situation.
Weeks of intense rainfall have damaged roads, homes and other critical infrastructure in Mozambique. Officials say the floods have killed more than 100 people so far.
The situation may worsen as the rainy season intensifies in central and northern Mozambique. Meteorologists have also warned of further heavy rainfall as the country enters its annual cyclone season.
