Fire brigade to the rescue

On Thursday afternoon what started as a small flame, suddenly became a raging inferno at the home of Princess Mjadu of the Mangete Reserve. The entire contents of the dwelling were burned beyond recognition.
Items included a bed, a fridge, a welding machine, TV, child’s bicycle, clothes, linen and sadly, important documents.
It is extremely difficult to give directions in rural settlements – e.g.: if you are going towards Ging on the old road, the house is on the left by the big blue shop! Needless to say the area does not have any water and tankers were scarce even before the water shortage. Ilembe have refused to help with water tankers for the fire engine in the past. Roads are almost non-existent, distances difficult to judge. People tried using sand to dampen the flames but to no avail.
The family are incredibly grateful to the Mandeni municipality rural fire brigade who were there within minutes, saving other homes close by and preventing more serious damage and even possible loss of lives. Professional, caring and dedicated – a huge thank you goes out to these guys and one beautiful lady!
This dedicated, hardworking, wonderful family – two sisters and a cousin are all single parents raising a child each and caring for their extended family.
If you are in the Mandeni area and have any old clothes or household items that you would like to donate please phone 032 456 3024 or 083 420 8358 and plans can be arranged to collect items.

MARILYN HARRIS
Mandeni