A recent spate of shack fires have injured and killed residents, causing enormous misery and displacement in various shack settlements within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM).
The recent incidents affected residents in six wards, destroying households and leaving people destitute, but through the coordinated efforts of the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), the Department of Human Settlements and collaboration with social partners such as SASSA, relief measures have been put in place to support the affected communities.
Fire victims have received immediate support, which includes the distribution of social relief distress packs, blankets, mattresses and the provision of three meals a day.
Speaking to the Express, the Metro’s municipal spokesperson, Bongani Fuzile, said the Executive Mayor and Council of the Metro extend their heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and wish to assure all affected residents that they remain committed to restoring dignity and shelter to all affected families.
He told the Express that their teams are working tirelessly to ensure no one is left without support. “We are engaging all relevant departments and partners to ensure rebuilding is prioritised, and we call on the public to assist wherever possible. In Nompumelelo Township, several good Samaritans have already donated clothes to those affected.”
He said the Buffalo City Metro Municipality urges all residents to remain vigilant and practise fire safety, especially as the dry season continues.
