Yoshini Perumal|Published
A Durban mother has launched Global Voices for the Missing after families said they were not directly informed about the end of search-and-rescue operations following Nepal’s August 26 floods.
Govender said she had been “met with silence” from authorities following announcements that the search for the missing pilgrims was over.
Through this social media campaign, Govender hopes to raise legitimate questions, share verified information and ensure their loved ones are not forgotten.
Last week, the Nepalese government announced that the country’s waiting period to legally declare missing victims dead from 12 years was shortened to 45 days following the August 26 flash floods.
Govender’s daughter Terricia, 34, is one of the six South African pilgrims missing since the floods.
The other are Barika Ramjee, 43, Vivaganathan Pillay, 66, and his wife Janet, 56; and 74-year-old Surendranath Maharaj and his wife Anitha, 67 - also remain missing.
Over 1,400 people have been confirmed dead, while over 5,600 people remain missing during the floods
Govender said one of her biggest concerns was that families learned that search-and-rescue operations had been concluded through news reports, social media and online platforms.
“This left us with serious questions about communication, coordination and what happens next for those whose loved ones remain missing.
“Did the Nepalese authorities formally notify the South African government and our embassy about the decision to conclude search-and-rescue operations?
“Were the relevant families informed directly, and were the necessary next steps explained? These are important questions for which we need clear answers.”
Govender said she had emailed South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) several times seeking assistance and clarification, but have not received a response.
“As a mother desperately seeking answers, that silence has been extremely difficult.
“This is one of the reasons I created Global Voices for the Missing. Families should not have to depend on scattered news reports and social media posts to understand decisions affecting their missing loved ones. We need direct communication, meaningful updates, appropriate follow-up on unresolved cases, and cooperation between the relevant authorities and governments.
“When official communication does not reach families, we have to turn to social media, online news platforms, journalists, television, radio and newspapers to make our voices heard. We are using these platforms not to spread rumours, but to raise legitimate questions, share verified information and ensure our loved ones are not forgotten.”
Govender said she hoped that the campaign would bring families together across borders to support one another, raise international awareness and encourage the relevant authorities to address the questions that remain unanswered.
“Our campaign is about visibility, accountability, communication and answers. The conclusion of active search operations must not mean the end of attention to those who remain missing or the families still waiting for clarity.
“I am Terricia’s mother. I will continue to speak out for my daughter and stand alongside every family facing this unimaginable uncertainty,” she added.
The campaign calls for residents to record a short video in support of the initiative to raise international awareness for Terricia and all the missing pilgrims.
Govender said those who wished to join the campaign could upload a 15–20 second video sharing their message of support, and asking people to join the campaign.
“On Saturday (October 17), we want people to publish their videos to raise international awareness.
“Our loved ones are still missing. Our families are still waiting. Their stories must not be forgotten. The search may have stopped. The questions have not,” Govender added.
Terricia’s grandfather, Krish Govender, 84, joined the campaign. In his video, he said their family continues to pray and hope for all the missing pilgrims.
“I proudly support Global Voices for the Missing, bringing families together to raise international awareness.
“Please share the stories, support our campaign, and help us reach the right people.
“Every missing person matters and every family deserves answers. Please stand with us as one united voice,” he appealed.