A state of disaster has been declared in eight provinces as a drought continues across the country. This is up from the previous five provinces that were declared to be in a disaster state.

In a statement, Minister for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Des van Rooyen, said the drought conditions experienced in most parts of the country were a result of natural phenomenon that were characterised by below normal rainfalls and increased maximum temperatures and heatwaves.

“These conditions have resulted in eight provinces being declared states of disaster, with the exception being Gauteng. However, we have intervened in many parts of the country, with the assistance of state-owned entities, private sector and non-governmental organisations.

“This assistance included the drilling of boreholes and distribution of millions of litres of drinking water,” said Minister van Rooyen.