150k jobs at risk in KZN as govt tallies unrest damage
One hundred and fifty thousand jobs are at risk in KwaZulu-Natal due to the extensive damage caused by looters and arsonists.
Government's gave another update on Tuesday on the impact of last week's violence and interventions to recover.
Acting Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said Durban's GDP is set to lose R20 billion as a result.
"One hundred and sixty one malls were affected, eleven warehouses were affected, 8 factories affected, and 161 liquor outlets and distributors were extensively damaged.
"Over 200 shopping centres, majority of them were looted and damaged. Over 100 malls were burnt or had significant fire damage, and approximately 3 000 stores were looted.
READ: Recovery of looted goods in KZN ramped up: Cele
"In KZN alone, they are estimating currently that stock to the value of R1.5 billion has been lost on Durban alone. 1 400 ATMs have been damaged, and 300 banks and Post Office outlets vandalised."
Ntshavheni said the figures have been put together by the South African Property Owners Association.
She says assessments are ongoing.
"The South African Special Risk Insurance Association (SASRIA) will conduct an assessment on the full extent of the damage and the economic cluster of ministers are consolidating proposals for the government package of intervention including for small businesses that are mostly uninsured."
