Official estimates put at some 13 000 the number of people who have been displaced and need support.
The Premier has announced that the Provincial Government is using a three-pronged approach to deal with what is largely a criminal campaign under the guise of xenophobia.
"First, we are working very closely with the police to stabilise our communities. The police have acted decisively to contain the violence, putting as many officers as possible on the streets, arresting perpetrators and sending a message to victims and potential targets that they are being and will be protected.
"Secondly, we are working closely with NGOs to provide relief and support for all those who have been affected. Since the violence hit the Western Cape on Thursday night, at least 13 000 people have fled their homes and sought refuge at police stations, churches and community halls," said Rasool.
"Government is doing everything it can to help victims of the violence, but we are appealing to the public to donate non perishable foods, blankets and clothing to non-governmental organisations such as the Red Cross and Mustadafin," he said.
"Thirdly, we have set our sights on short-, medium- and long-term stability and so we've brought together a task team of mediators and conflict resolution specialists who are mandated to work with communities.
"Government condemns violence and criminality under the guise of xenophobia, is urging communities to talk about their problems.""Our team of peace mediators will assist communities to talk about their problems and help to re-integrate foreign nationals who have been displaced."
People who want to send donations could do so at:
The South African Red Cross: Moketsi - 078 450 4303
HDI: Andre - 082 935 3353
Mustafadin: Gairunisa - 084 572 2355
Salvation Army: Neville - 083 304 9483
Zansaf: Mogamat - 072 371 1564
Enquiries:
Palesa Moruda
Department of the Premier
Cell: 082 304 2425
Issued by:
Jeremy Michaels
Chief Director: Communications
Department of the Premier
Provincial Government of the Western Cape
Cell: +27 (0)82 772 1122
Office: +27 (0)21 483 9955
Fax: +27 (0)21 483 7196
E-mail: jmichaels@pgwc.gov.za
Postal address: PO Box 659, Cape Town, 8000.
Physical address: Office of the Premier, Mezzanine Level, M23, 7 Wale Street, Cape Town, South Africa, 8001.
Website: www.capegateway.gov.za
