Chinese embassy in S. Africa donates to flood victims

The Chinese embassy in South Africa on Wednesday donated $66,667 to the South African government to assist victims of devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal province.

Ambassador Chen Xiaodong handed the donation to Lindiwe Zulu, minister of social development, on Wednesday in Pretoria. South Africa experienced heavy rains which left 448 dead, many others missing and caused extensive damage to infrastructure.

Chen expressed solidarity with the government and victims of the floods, noting South Africa and China are all-weather friends with bonds bound to grow from strength to strength.

"The Chinese people's thoughts and prayers are with KwaZulu-Natal. In the face of major natural disasters like this, China and South Africa have always stood by and fought with each other. As we confront floods unseen in decades, China is ready to provide assistance within our capacity," Chen said.

He promised to mobilise more funds and supplies from the Chinese enterprises and communities in South Africa. Chen expressed optimism the country will prevail over the current challenges with strong leadership.

Zulu thanked the Chinese embassy for the donation, saying the Chinese embassy has always supported her government in challenges.

"There is a lot we can learn from China, because the way they can build structures within a short space of time is admirable," Zulu said.

Zulu said South Africa and China are "good partners" and expressed optimism the two will continue with "win-win" situation where they are equal partners regardless of size and economic power.

She stated people have to be educated about climate change and avoid building in low-lying areas, cliffs and next to rivers.

The African Union has donated $150,000 to South Africa to help in its response to the floods in KwaZulu-Natal province. Other countries like Singapore, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have pledged to help Pretoria render humanitarian help to flood victims. Chair of the Chinese community in Gauteng province Erwin Pon said they have contributed $6,667 to the Nelson Mandela Foundation to be used in KwaZulu-Natal province.