Fire destroys Mbayi shacks

Forty-two Mbayi residents (outside Tongaat) including 17 children were left homeless after their shacks were destroyed by a fire on Saturday, September 13.

Mbayi co-ordinator Monica Nobesuthu praised their ward councilor Michael Abrahams for his assistance.

“We thank him, he came almost immediately with the fire engines. Thereafter he arranged with the disaster management of the Ethekwini Municipality for supplies of blankets, mattresses and groceries for the affected families,” said Nobesuthu.

Most of the families are accommodated in the nearby community hall while others took refuge with their relatives.

According to ward committee member Maxwell Ndunge the disaster happened just as the Umbhayi Housing Project was about to begin. On September 5 the tender for the building of 960 houses closed at the councilor’s boardroom and building is expected to commence soon.

“Our misery will be a thing of the past and we look forward to living in proper houses,” said Ndunge.

Abrahams is appealing for donations of items such as school uniforms, clothing, kitchen utensils, furniture to help the affected families.

Anyone wishing to assist may contact councillor Michael Abrahams on 072 629 4384 or on email-michael.abraham@durban.gov.za or visit his offices at Room 10 Tongaat Sizakala Centre.