Johannesburg — South Africa has not been requested by Mozambique to assist it after a cyclone claimed 19 lives and left scores homeless over the weekend, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday.

"We have not received such a request yet, but we are ready to assist if we are called upon," departmental spokesman Ronnie Mamoepa said.

Cyclone Japhet hit Mozambique on Sunday and left over 20000 people homeless.

It destroyed homes and schools, brought down telephone and power lines and trees in the coastal province of Inhambane.

On Monday, President Thabo Mbeki conveyed his condolences to the Mozambican government.

"It was with sadness that we received the news of the devastation caused by cyclone, which resulted in the loss of life," he said.

"Be assured that our thoughts and prayers are with the Mozambican people and in particular with the family and friends of the victims."