Safripol, in collaboration with partners, provided critical water tanks to flood-affected communities in Kwazulu-Natal, ensuring access to clean water and aiding in post-disaster recovery.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (27 April 2024) – Water, the essence of life, is an invaluable resource often taken for granted until it becomes scarce. The devastating floods that hit Kwazulu-Natal (KZN) in April 2022 served as a stark reminder of our vulnerability, wreaking havoc on communities and severely compromising water supplies.
Amidst the chaos, Safripol, alongside other dedicated South African entities, stepped up with unwavering solidarity and swift action to address the urgent need for clean water.
The Kwazulu-Natal coastal zone, encompassing the greater Durban area and South Coast, experienced catastrophic flooding, with more than 300mm of rain falling in just 24 hours. This led to unprecedented devastation, claiming 459 lives, leaving 88 people missing and destroying over 4,000 homes. Furthermore, 40,000 people were left homeless, and 45,000 people were temporarily without employment.
The economic impact was staggering, with infrastructure and business losses estimated at US$2 billion.
In the aftermath, water infrastructure sustained extensive damage, resulting in 80% water contamination in the hardest-hit areas. This dire situation left thousands without access to safe, potable water, escalating the risk of waterborne diseases and disrupting daily life. Schools, in particular, struggled to maintain basic hygiene and operate regular hours due to the lack of clean water.
Responding to this urgent crisis, Safripol, in collaboration with Gift of the Givers and Africa Tanks, mobilised resources to deliver a sustainable solution.
“Together, we provided water tanks capable of storing 1.25 million litres, ensuring a continuous supply of clean water for affected communities,” said Londi Mbuyisa, Founder and MD of the Isphepho Group.
Mbuyisa highlighted the profound impact of these water tanks, particularly in schools where clean water availability is crucial for health, sanitation, and uninterrupted education.
Safripol’s commitment to sustainability shines through in its product development, notably the iMPACT 100® pressure pipe resin and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) resin for water tanks. Certified by an independent European body, Safripol’s pressure pipe resin meets stringent standards, offering durability and reduced leakage. The water tanks produced are designed for longevity and safety, providing a dependable water storage solution, especially vital in rural areas lacking robust infrastructure.
“At Safripol, we understand that sustainability is not just a policy but a practical, impactful action. Our engagement in the Kwazulu-Natal water crisis exemplifies our broader mission to support communities, preserve natural resources, and innovate for a better future. We are dedicated to advancing sustainable practices across our operations and products, ensuring we contribute positively to the environment and society at large.”
In these challenging times, Safripol and its partners’ proactive efforts offer hope and demonstrate the power of collective action and positive impact when businesses and communities unite. As South Africa continues to recover and rebuild, Safripol’s commitment to sustainable water solutions will undoubtedly be essential in restoring normalcy and resilience to the affected communities.
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