Family picks up the pieces after devastating fire
The KZN Department of Human Settlements, together with the Newcastle Municipality, visited the property this week, to conduct an area assessment.
Preparations are underway to rebuild the Nkabinde family’s home in Section 3 Madadeni, after a fire destroyed it some three weeks ago. The KZN Department of Human Settlements, together with the Newcastle Municipality, visited the property this week, to conduct an area assessment.
The family are eager to start rebuilding their lives. Homeowner, Mr Nkabinde (61), is currently undergoing kidney dialysis at the Newcastle Kidney and Dialysis Center and was not present to greet the visitors but they were welcomed by Nkabinde’s son, Vumani Nkosi (32) who said his father was in good spirits despite his illness and was extremely grateful to still be alive.
“My dad struggles with his kidneys. To make matters worse he had an accident last year in November and had to have his leg amputated after the accident. He also suffers from diabetes. An artificial leg was made for him but it unfortunately was also destroyed by the fire so he is now in a wheelchair,” explained Nkosi.
Samkelisiwe Yende, the Newcastle Council Speaker, said the family would be provided with temporary shelter, to be erected by next week while the building took place.
“It’s important for the municipality to respond to disasters as swiftly as possible. We are here with the KZN Department of Human Settlements and the building contractor to see what work needs to be done. It must be noted, the Settlements Department works according to certain specifications. The house will be a 40 square metre home, smaller than before. In some instances, a family can choose to be given the building material and build themselves, while others prefer the house to be built for them. This will be discussed and finalised with the Nkabinde family,” explained Yende.
Yende emphasized the importance of departments working together in the spirit of ‘Ubuntu’.
“We must all look out for each other, be responsible citizens and assist where we can,” she said.
Mayor Ntuthuko Mahlaba, who accompanied the delegation, reiterated that his door was always open for community members who were looking for assistance.
The Nkabinde family suspect arson.
A case of arson is still being investigated at the Madadeni Police Station, confirmed Communications Officer, Captain Mandlenkosi Nkosi.
For the original story of this article, please read page 2 of the Newcastle Advertiser dated May 22, 2020.
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