Ward 114 councillor David Mangena collaborated with a number of organisations and local businesses to aid families affected by the fire in Zandspruit informal settlement.
The fire started in one of the shacks after midnight on May 23 and spread to others. The cause of the fire is unknown.
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Resident Stephan Nhlapho reported that shortly after the power was restored, they heard a child screaming for help in one of the shacks.
“I’m not sure if that was the cause, but we woke up and had to rush to get it out. Our water pressure is quite low in the taps, and buckets take a long time to fill, and the fire does not wait.”
According to Nhlapho, ten families with seven young children were affected and lost their goods.
“We are thankful to everybody and the entities that came to help and show support during this devastating time and we are now going to rebuild.”
Community leaders and organisations including the Al-Imdaad Foundation, Joburg Disaster Management, and local construction companies banded together to offer their help to the affected residents. Hygiene packs and mattresses were among the much-needed items provided, while others donated wooden poles and zinc to help the families reconstruct their homes.
Ward councillors sent food packs containing bath soap, toothbrushes, and other necessities to affected residents.
Mangena verified that the cause of the fire has not been determined and that no injuries were reported. He praised the entities, particularly the Zandspruit Construction Forum, for their assistance.
“They did a wonderful job assisting the community. They are working and making money around the community so donating was a good gesture. I am very grateful, and we appreciate the support.”
Mangena advises residents to unplug their electronic gadgets during load-shedding and to use caution when using candles and heaters. “This will help minimise the risk of fire and residents can be safe, especially during the winter season.”
The community is encouraged to donate anything from food, blankets, and old clothes.
“We have a storeroom, and we will store everything so that when another disaster strikes or in times of need, we can help our people. These will assist even the disadvantaged people and we will be combat-ready for disaster and hunger,” said Mangena.
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