Collective grief

Members of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) dispatched a special envoy, to visit the bereaved families after the tragic burning to death of four children in Mookgophong.

The ZCC church promised financial aid and counselling for the family members.

Mohau Mabela (5), Mahlatjie Thomas Nabela (11), Junior Marcus Nkuna (14) and Mpho Nkuna (9) are scheduled to be laid to rest at a burial that will be attended by political, church and other
community leaders, from across the length and breadth of the country.

Limpopo DA leader, Jacques Smalle, and Modimolle-Mookgophong Mayor Marlene van Staden, reported Waterberg city fathers, Morris Maluleke, municipal manager and other senior managers to the
relevant authorities on a case of possible negligence.

As the fire raged in the early hours of Sunday 3 March, it has come to light that none of the six district authority’s fire engines were functional. A fire fighter utility vehicle was
despatched to the scene but could not assist in dousing out the fire as it did not carry water.

Smalle mentioned Maluleka, and three other officials, namely Peter Makondo, Moses Sithole and Dan Mokonyane, as being allegedly responsible for the incidence of possible negligence.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves nationwide, with the mainstream media and talk shows abuzz with the news of the death of the children. The tragedy has had rippling effects all-round.

Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Makoma Makhurupetje, has called on parents to take greater care of their little ones and not to leave them unattended. “We insist that parents
should look after their children because child neglect is a serious offence punishable by the law,” she warned.

The SAPS said an inquest case would be opened, although a clearly shaken Makhurupetje said the incident looked “suspicious”.

Both the MEC and the police said the mother had left the children sleeping inside the shack on Saturday night, and proceeded to attend a church service a few doors down from the incident.

The fire was noticed in the early hours of Sunday morning after neighbours heard loud and urgent calling for help.
Modimolle-Mookgophong Mayor Marlene van Staden said the municipality would assist in terms of funeral arrangements.

Fact File

The website www.childwelfare.gov
1) Is your child physically and mentally able to care for him- or herself?

2) Does your child obey rules and make good decisions?

3) How does your child respond to unfamiliar or stressful situations?

4) Does your child feel comfortable or fearful about being home alone?

5) How long will your child be left home alone at one time? Will it be
during the day, evening, or night? Will the child need to fix a meal? If
so, is there food that can be prepared without using a stove to minimize
the risk of fires or burns?

6) How often will the child be expected to care for him- or herself?

7) How many children are being left home alone?

8) Children who seem ready to stay home alone may not necessarily be
ready to care for younger siblings.

9) Is your home safe and free of hazards?

10) How safe is your neighbourhood?

11) Does your child know how to lock or secure the doors?

12) Does your child have a key to your home or a plan if he or she gets
locked out?

13) Does your child know what to do if a visitor comes to the door?

14) Are there other adults nearby that you trust and who are home and
can offer immediate assistance if there is an emergency or your child
becomes fearful?

— The BEAT