ABOUT US
The Respond SA National Disaster Relief Network (known as Respond SA) was formally launched on 18 February 2025, but the coalition was formed in 2012 already to increase the effectiveness of churches’ collaborative responses to large-scale disaster incidents. The initiative started in the City of Cape Town and surrounding areas, but the Network is currently functioning nationally. The network is comprised
of several churches and Christian non-profit organisations.
OUR WHY
Putting faith into action: As Christians, RESPOND SA members believe in demonstrating their faith
through tangible acts of service and support.
Nurturing the earth: Recognising the importance of environmental stewardship, RESPOND SA
promotes sustainable practices and responsible resource management.
Caring for humanity: RESPOND SA prioritises the well-being and dignity of all individuals, providing
emotional, physical, and spiritual support in times of crisis.
Prevention and Training: RESPOND SA conducts comprehensive training and preparation programs
on Incident Management Systems (IMS) to enhance the capacity of its
members and partners to respond effectively to disasters.
“AS UNITED METHODIST AND AS CHRISTIANS, WE DO NOT PUT OUR THEOLOGY ON THE SHELF…
WE PUT IT TO WORK.”
-Rev Thomas Kemper
MEMBERS
Founding Members:
| Western Cape |
Heal our Land Unashamedly Ethical Love George/Love Garden Route Communities of Abundance – Christ over Africa |
| Gauteng |
Funanani Trust PEN Lewende Woord Church |
| Other |
Domino Foundation City Hope Disaster Relief Dutch Reformed Church |
STEERING COMMITTEE
Chairperson: Boshoff Grobler
Operational Support: Mico Botha
Organisational Support: Johan Duraan
National Team Leader: Marinda van Niekerk
Regional Team Leaders:
Catherine Smith (KwaZulu Natal & Eastern Cape)
Lester Sedras (Western Cape, Northern Cape & Free State)
Marketing:
Karen Brokensha
CONTACT US
NATIONAL TEAM LEADER
Dr. Marinda van Niekerk
Email: national@respondsa.co.za
REGIONAL TEAM LEADERS
Catherine Smith (KwaZulu Natal & Eastern Cape)
Email: catherine@cityhope.co.za
Lester Sedras (Western Cape, Northern Cape & Free State)
Email: lester@warehouse.org.za