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24 May 2008

Western Cape Premier Ebrahim Rasool has made an urgent appeal for blankets and non-perishable food to relieve the plight of thousands of people left homeless by violence in the province. Official estimates put at some 13 000 the number of people who have been displaced and need support.

The Premier has announced that the provincial government is using a three-pronged approach to deal with what is largely a criminal campaign under the guise of xenophobia. "First, we are working very closely with the police to stabilise our communities. The police have acted decisively to contain the violence, putting as many officers as possible on the streets, arresting perpetrators and sending a message to victims and potential targets that they are being and will be protected.

"Secondly, we are working closely with Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to provide relief and support for all those who have been affected. Since the violence hit the Western Cape on Thursday night, at least 13 000 people have fled their homes and sought refuge at police stations, churches and community halls," said Rasool. "Government is doing everything it can to help victims of the violence, but we are appealing to the public to donate non perishable foods, blankets and clothing to non-governmental organisations such as the Red Cross and Mustadafin," he said.

"Thirdly, we have set our sights on short, medium and long-term stability and so we've brought together a task team of mediators and conflict resolution specialists who are mandated to work with communities.

"Government condemns violence and criminality under the guise of xenophobia, is urging communities to talk about their problems." "Our team of peace mediators will assist communities to talk about their problems and help to re-integrate foreign nationals who have been displaced."

People who want to send donations could do so at.
The South African Red Cross
Moketsi
Cell: 078 450 4303

Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI)
Andre
Cell: 082 935 3353

Mustafadin
Gairunisa
Cell: 084 572 2355

Salvation Army
Neville
Cell: 083 304 9483

Zansaf
Mogamat
Cell: 072 371 1564

Enquiries:
Palesa Moruda
Cell: 082 304 2425

Issued by: Western Cape Provincial Government
25 May 2008
Source: Western Cape Provincial Government (http://www.capegateway.gov.za)