Cape Town – An inferno in KwaMasinenge informal settlement on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast has destroyed 111 dwellings, leaving over 300 people homeless.
One of the victims was killed in the blaze.
The cause of the fire is unclear, but a gas cylinder explosion in Qokayi’s shack is believed to have contributed to the severity of the blaze.
News: An early morning fire outbreak in the KwaMasinenge informal settlement, located in the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality of the Ugu District, has caused devastation, destroying approximately 111 households.
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“Preliminary reports indicate that the fire has resulted in the unfortunate loss of one life and has severely impacted over 300 people who were left homeless,” a statement said.
Co-operative governance and traditional affairs MEC Bongi Sithole-Moloi expressed condolences and said that government officials are providing aid and relief supplies to the affected individuals.
“The provincial government has assembled a dedicated team to conduct a thorough assessment of the situation and determine the full extent of the damage.
“Dedicated disaster response teams are working tirelessly at the scene to prevent the fire from spreading to undamaged homes while simultaneously assisting the affected individuals.
“All provincial departments are mobilizing their resources to ensure a coordinated response, working around the clock to assist the affected communities.
“Priority is being given to those who have lost important documents, such as identification documents, birth certificates, and Sassa cards,” the statement said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
