Ramaphosa: AG will conduct real-time audits of flood relief funds

There's worry that the money meant for relief efforts will be looted or misappropriated as has previously been the case with other crises.

But Ramaphosa has moved to allay the public's fears, telling a joint sitting of Parliament strict anti-corruption measures will be applied.

READ: Prasa: R2.9bn needed to repair damaged infrastructure

"Working together with National Treasury, the auditor-general will conduct real-time audits on the emergency flood relief funds.

"This will provide independent assurance on whether public funds have been appropriately accounted for and were used for their intended purpose.

"These audits aim to prevent, detect and report on the findings to ensure an immediate response to prevent leakage, potential fraud and wastage." 

Ramaphosa requested the joint sitting on the floods that have devastated KwaZulu-Natal and parts of the Eastern Cape.  

ALSO READ: Residents hijack tanker as Isipingo water woes continue

In KZN, 435 people have died. Officials say more than 50 are still missing.

Search and rescue crews are continuing with recovery missions to bring closure to their families.

The floods have caused extensive damage to electricity, water and road infrastructure.

It also damaged more than 600 schools and other service facilities.

Billions of rands will be needed to rebuild the province.