The cause of the fire is not known, but it is believed to have been caused by an element, which Ngcobo used to boil water.
He says he left it plugged in during a power failure and suspects it started the fire when the power was restored.
Ngcobo says he is saddened that most of his treasured belongings will never be replaced, but is glad he still has a roof over his head.
“The fire nearly destroyed everything I have worked for over all these years,” he says.
His electricity connection has not been checked or rewired, and he receives power from his neighbours.
“I waited for the ward councillor to attend to my issue but he has not come.
“I fear that the connection I’m currently using from my neighbours will also cause a fire especially if we get bad weather,” he adds.
Ngcobo receives assistance from SASSA for groceries every month.
“SASSA gives me groceries worth R750 every month, that’s the only organisation that is assisting me as I try and rebuild my life,”says Ngcobo.
