LIMPOPO PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT BRIEFS MEDIA ON STATE OF DISASTER, 2025/26 ROAD SAFETY OUTCOMES AND MARULA FESTIVAL ADJUSTMENT
The Limpopo Provincial Government convened a media briefing at the Office of the Premier to provide a comprehensive update on the ongoing State of Disaster, the release of the Limpopo 2025/26 Road Safety Report, and the status of the Marula Festival considering recent adverse weather conditions.
Led by the Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, in the EXCO Boardroom, Office of the Premier, with key contributions from the MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET), Mr Tshitereke Matibe, MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Ms Violet Mathye and representatives from BaPhalaborwa Local Municipality and Mopani District Municipality. The briefing underscored government’s commitment to transparency, coordinated response efforts, and the safety and wellbeing of all residents.
State of Disaster Response
The Provincial Government, working closely with the provincial disaster management team and key stakeholders, is responding urgently and continuously to the impact of the recent floods across the province. Teams are operating day and night to assess damage, provide relief and restore essential services to affected communities. To date, the disaster has resulted in 27 fatalities, approximately 3 194 homes severely damaged, and 439 roads rendered unusable, significantly affecting mobility and access in several areas.
Government reaffirmed its focus on supporting displaced families, repairing critical infrastructure, and strengthening disaster response and mitigation measures to reduce future risks.
Road Safety Report: Encouraging Progress, Continued Vigilance
The media briefing also highlighted positive developments in road safety outcomes. Limpopo recorded a Media Statement – Briefing on the State of Disaster , Marula Festival and Release of the Limpopo 2025-26 Road Safety Report during the festive season compared to the previous financial year.
While welcoming this progress, Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba emphasized that sustained effort remains essential. Government will continue to intensify road safety education, law enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to work towards a crash-free and fatality-free Limpopo.
Marula Festival Update
Regarding the Marula Festival, the Provincial Government acknowledged that the key access routes leading to Phalaborwa have been severely affected by the recent adverse weather, with many households in the area also impacted.
As a result, all activities leading up to the main Marula Festival have been postponed, prioritizing public safety and allowing sufficient time for infrastructure rehabilitation and community recovery.
“We will continue to keep the public informed about the disaster response and rescheduled festival dates through official communication platforms,” said Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
The Limpopo Provincial Government called on residents, motorists, and stakeholders to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and support collective efforts to rebuild communities, promote road safety, and sustain economic and cultural activities in the province.
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Issued on behalf of Limpopo Tourism Agency:
Enquiries:
Ms Tinyiko Maluleke
Manager: Corporate Communications and Public Relations
Tel: 012 293 3600
Cell: 072 105 9280 / 066 476 4762
Email: tinyikom@golimpopo.com