The South African government will send a second team of professionals to assist with rescue efforts in quake devastated Haiti, the country's international relations spokesman said on Monday.

Spokesman Saul Molobi said the team will comprise mainly forensic pathologists who would help identify bodies.

"We are not sure exactly when they will be sent... we are waiting for a report back from Rescue South Africa who are doing ground work in the country."

The South African team already in Haiti include 40 people, mainly medical staff and engineers. It has taken 10 tons of search and rescue equipment as well as medical supplies.

Molobi said South Africa would follow this up with more aid, like food and medicine. It was hoped South Africa could raise 30 million rands (US$4.05 million) to help.

The South African city of Tshwane and South African charity Gift of the Givers had also sent rescue teams. According to estimates, Tuesday's 7.0-magnitude quake claimed the lives of at least 100,000 people.

Molobi said former Haitian president Jean Bertrand Aristide had not yet received an invitation to return home.

Last week, Aristide -- who came to live in exile in South Africa with his family following his ousting as president in February 2004 -- publicly expressed a desire to go home.

(Xinhua News Agency January 19, 2010)