National Minerals and Energy Affairs Minister Buyelwa Sonjica has visited Mdikisweni rural village at Bizana in the Eastern Cape to assess first-hand the damage caused by runaway fires and strong winds.

National Minerals and Energy Affairs Minister Buyelwa Sonjica has visited Mdikisweni rural village at Bizana in the Eastern Cape to assess first-hand the damage caused by runaway fires and strong winds.

Sonjica said her department had allocated R100million to rebuild damaged electricity substations in the area and R2million to rebuild schools.

Over 200 people have been left destitute after runaway fires destroyed their homes and farm land.

Large tracts of sugar cane plantations have also been destroyed, while more than 100 classrooms and a cultural village were also completely gutted.

Sonjica, accompanied by several company representatives, also handed out food and other donations to local residents and communities. - Kamva Mokoena