Jumpas residents rebuild after fire
“Most people have been staying with their neighbours since the fire."
By Mbavhalelo Malofha
Community members have already started to rebuild some of the 87 shacks destroyed by the September 17 fire in Jumpas informal settlement.
Resident Zandile Khumalo said she built a one-room shack using the materials which she managed to save from the fire.
Another resident, Dorris Pheto, appealed to those who can assist the Jumpas community with building materials to do so.
“Some of us cannot afford to rebuild our shacks. I have been staying with my neighbour since my shack burnt down. It is difficult. There are five of us in one shack,” she said.
Mfanafuthi Ndlovu, a member of the community committee in Jumpas, said residents will appreciate any help to be able to start rebuilding.
“Most people have been staying with their neighbours since the fire. We desperately need the government to help with providing houses in future. For now, our immediate need is help to rebuild our shacks,” he said.
Residents said City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) were providing training in the use of the Jozi fire safety kits distributed in July last year.
“We were trained but by the time we saw our shacks on fire, it was already too late to contain the fire. We would like EMS to train us again. Most people who were trained have moved out and some of us don’t have safety kits,” said Bridget Sibanda.
“The recipients of the Jozi safety kits were trained in basic firefighting and basic first aid, with the aim of empowering them to deal with some of the emergencies before we arrive on scene,” said EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi.
“This is part of our initiative to build resilient communities who are capable of dealing with any emergency which might occur in their areas,” he said.
The safety kit consists of a parasafe stove, a burn kit to treat minor burns, a solar lantern, a paraffin container with a safety cap, a smoke detector, fire retardant spray and a 25-litre bucket to store water, which can be used as an extinguishing agent.
“Residents can inform their community leaders if they wish to receive more fire safety training. Community leaders can then contact EMS to arrange more training,” said Mulaudzi.
Residents can contact community leaders Mfanafuthi Ndlovu (061 402 8717) or Freddie Yende (073 720 2764).
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