PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa has promised the community of Charlesville in Jagersfontein, Free State that the government will built them new houses.
Ramaphosa was addressing the residents in Fauresmith, a nearby town to Jagersfontein.
He joined government’s officials on Monday, 12 September to asses the damage caused by the mine dam collapse.
On Sunday, the residents of this small town were left without homes after they were washed away.
At least one person was confirmed dead, while more than 80 people were taken to various hospitals in the Free State, mostly treated for hypothermia.
Over 250 people were left displaced.
Ramaphosa said he has also visited the injured residents who are still in hospital.
He told the residents that the government’s focus is to look after its people and everything that goes with creating and restoring their livelihoods.
“Social workers will assess everyone and make sure that everyone is looked after. The Department of Human Settlements and MECs are here to provide alternative accommodation,” he said.
Ramaphosa said the cause of the collapse will be investigated.
He described the mine dam collapse in Jagersfontein as an accident.
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“We will investigate what we should have done and what not. Don’t lose hope, the government is going to be here, walking this journey with you. I’m happy to be among you but I am sad because I have come during a disaster,” said Ramaphosa.
One of the resident, who lives near the dam told the president that the dam was a disaster waiting to happen.
He said they have complained about it in the past but nothing was done.
The man said he wants a written promise that their houses will be rebuilt by the end of October from the president.
