Unemployed nurse helps deliver a baby during Limpopo floods
An unemployed nurse has been praised for her bravery after helping a woman deliver a baby girl amid severe flooding in Mbaula village outside Giyani, Limpopo.
The birth-giving unfolded after persistent heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding, damaging roads and cutting off access to nearby health facilities. With key routes submerged, the expectant mother was unable to reach a clinic in time.
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Maggie Setagane, a qualified but currently unemployed nurse, stepped in when conditions slightly improved. She said she managed to reach the woman once the floodwaters began to subside and immediately assisted with the delivery, ensuring both the mother and newborn were safe.
The incident highlights the broader devastation caused by floods in the Mopani and Vhembe districts, where homes have been destroyed and families displaced. Some residents were forced to climb onto ceilings to escape rising water levels. “People have lost their houses, some with eight or ten rooms, and now they have nowhere to sleep,” said Setagane.
Meanwhile, Limpopo MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Mr Basikopo Makamu, expressed deep concern over the rising death toll, which has now reached 17. “What is happening is worrisome. As government, we are deeply saddened by these unwarranted fatalities in our communities,” said Makamu. He added that SAPS and other agencies are still searching for people who may have been swept away.
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Makamu welcomed the classification of the floods as a national disaster, saying, “We welcome the classification. It is a huge milestone that will allow coordinated support to rebuild affected areas.” He urged residents to remain vigilant, heed SAWS warnings and avoid unnecessary travel as heavy rains persist.
The MEC conveyed condolences to affected families and confirmed that disaster management teams are distributing relief and working with stakeholders to support recovery and protect lives.
