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On 5 January 2025, a powerful tornado ripped through Welkom, leaving widespread destruction in its path. The hardest-hit areas, Wards 32 and 27, suffered extensive damage to private properties, Unitas School, the Lejweleputswa Disaster Management Centre, the Fire Station, and prominent businesses in the industrial zone, including Freshbake and Transito Powertrade.

The devastation to emergency service facilities has crippled their ability to provide immediate assistance, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents and businesses in the aftermath of the disaster.

In response to this crisis, the Democratic Alliance (DA) acted swiftly to address the community's urgent needs. We called on the Matjhabeng Municipality to provide emergency contact numbers for affected residents and businesses without delay. Additionally, the DA provincial leader, Roy Jankielsohn, has written to the MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), requesting the intervention of Provincial Disaster Management structures to assist residents and businesses affected by the tornado.

This tragic event underscores the pressing need for improved disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure within Matjhabeng. The DA will closely monitor developments, ensuring that the necessary interventions are implemented to support affected communities and expedite recovery efforts.

We extend our deepest sympathies to all those impacted by this calamity and urge residents to exercise caution and vigilance during these trying times. The DA remains steadfast in its commitment to standing with the community, advocating for resources, and facilitating the recovery process.

Issued by René Steyn - DA Councillor Matjhabeng Municipality