Fire Destroys 28 Homes: MEC Duma Fast-Tracks Aid for Masinenge Community

Durban – Siboniso Duma, the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal, has initiated efforts to accelerate assistance for residents of Masinenge Informal Settlement, where a fire has devastated at least 28 homes.

The fire occurred in the early hours of Boxing Day, Thursday, 26 December 2024.

“Our hearts go out to the families who have been displaced as their homes were consumed by flames around 2 am this morning,” MEC Duma expressed.

Initial investigations indicate that an intoxicated person fell asleep while cooking dinner.

The stove, left unattended, sparked the flames that engulfed the residence and spread to neighboring houses.

Thankfully, no injuries or fatalities have been reported.

Upon receiving news of the incident, MEC Duma visited Masinenge Informal Settlement to engage with the affected families.

He was accompanied by Cllr Zodwa Mzindle, the Mayor of Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality, along with local Councillors and officials from Human Settlements.

“Regrettably, some family members whose homes were affected are currently away on holiday,” MEC Duma noted.

“We are in continuous communication with the National Department of Human Settlements. We thank national Minister Thembi Simelane for dispatching a senior manager to ensure a prompt response.”

The MEC confirmed that a team from the national department is collaborating with teams from the provincial Department of Human Settlements, Ugu District, and Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality.

To facilitate aid for the affected families, MEC Duma outlined the following actions:

  • Accelerating the profiling and verification of victims, with 16 residents already identified;
  • Providing immediate relief in the form of temporary accommodations, warm blankets, food, and other necessary supplies.

“We urge communities to be cautious about the fire hazards associated with cooking under the influence of alcohol,” warned MEC Duma.

“We appreciate the quick actions of the Fire & Rescue Teams from both municipalities, including Emergency Rescue Services, for their rapid response in dousing the flames.”

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