GQEBERHA – Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has expanded its support for humanitarian relief operations in Nelson Mandela Bay following the severe floods and storms that recently impacted communities across the metro.
Working alongside Gift of the Givers, IMSAf this week deployed two additional ISUZU D-MAX bakkies to strengthen ongoing disaster response efforts in affected areas where damaged infrastructure and flooding have limited access to essential resources.
The expanded fleet now consists of three ISUZU D-MAX bakkies, including two double cab 3.0-litre models and one single cab 3.0-litre model, as well as two ISUZU water tanker trucks equipped with 5,000-litre tanks. The vehicles are being used to transport humanitarian supplies and assist relief teams operating across the region.
“As a business with deep roots in Nelson Mandela Bay, we recognise the importance of acting decisively in support of communities during times of crisis. Through our ongoing partnership with Gift of the Givers and collaboration with local authorities, we are focused on enabling an efficient and coordinated response that ensures essential assistance reaches those most affected,” said Nandi Matomela, Department Executive: Corporate Affairs at Isuzu Motors South Africa.
Relief efforts are currently being coordinated across 18 designated community shelters established by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Residents displaced or impacted by the flooding are receiving warm meals, clean drinking water, blankets, toiletries and hot beverages as part of the ongoing support programme.
Gift of the Givers said the worsening weather conditions have required the deployment of additional personnel and resources from various parts of the country to assist local relief efforts.
“Gift of the Givers teams are working closely with the Eastern Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre and the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro following the escalation of weather warnings,” said Ali Sablay, Project Manager at Gift of the Givers Foundation.
“Additional resources and personnel have been deployed from our warehouses in Adelaide and the Western Cape. While flooding has limited access in certain areas, the availability of additional ISUZU vehicles is enabling our teams to reach affected communities more efficiently and expand the delivery of humanitarian aid, including hot meals, blankets, hygiene packs and food supplies. Our search and rescue teams are also on standby and ready to be deployed in support of local authorities as required.”
Relief operations remain ongoing as emergency teams continue assessing the needs of affected communities and extending assistance where necessary. Residents have also been encouraged to follow official communication platforms from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality for updates on shelters, weather conditions and emergency support services.
