MMC Molwele comes to the rescue after shack fire

27 June 2016

 

The City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee for Health and Social Development, Cllr Nonceba Molwele, sprang to the aid of nine families at Zamimpilo informal settlement in Soweto after a fire destroyed their shacks in the early hours of Saturday morning (25 June), leaving them destitute.

 

No fatalities or injuries were reported.

“We’re very sad about what has happened here and we want residents to know that they are not alone,” said MMC Molwele, who leapt into action to provide social relief as soon as she heard the news. Eighteen people, including two children aged five and seven, were affected by the fire. 
They lost valuable belongings such as clothing, school books and uniforms.

Among documents destroyed in the blaze were five South African IDs, six Mozambican passports and a South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) card.

“As the City we will do all we can to assist you to pick up the pieces after the fire,” MMC Molwele said. “We first want to assist you with the things you need urgently and then we will move into making sure that all the documents are replaced,” said MMC Molwele.

She said it was the duty of the City’s Social Development Department to provide immediate social relief to communities when they need it most. She also used the opportunity to urge residents to be more vigilant and safety conscious this winter.

“Let’s ensure that candles, cigarettes and paraffin stoves are not lit before going to bed,” MMC Molwele said.

She said parents should also teach their children about winter and fire safety so they know what they should and shouldn't do when there is a fire
The City’s Emergency Management Services is at present rolling out its winter safety campaign to educate residents on how to keep warm and safe during the icy season.