Fire sweeps through Masinenge on Christmas morning
Masinenge residents received emergency assistance after 25 homes burnt down.
MARGATE detectives are investigating a case of arson, after 25 houses were destroyed by a fire which broke out in the Masinenge informal settlement in Margate on Christmas morning.
Reflecting on what was a traumatic scene, resident Mannono Yekwayo (30) said most families were not at home at the time. “I was also away but friends made contact with me. I, together with many other families, lost everything,” said Mr Yekwayo.
He added that no injuries were reported. He was however grateful to Give a Child a Family in Margate who came and assisted the affected families.
Monica Woodhouse, from Give a Child a Family said ‘devastating’ is about the only word to describe what they saw.
“All I saw was black charcoal bits, burnt metal and wire from mattresses,” said Ms Woodhouse.
She added that a few calls to some organisations and businesses and the support was overwhelming. “Many organisation donated clothing, food items and mattresses to the families. We are in the process of rebuilding all the burnt houses. Many of the residents who are away are still not aware that their homes have been destroyed by the blaze,” she said.
She thanked everyone who has already rallied around to help the families.
Spokesman for Hibiscus Coast Municipality, Simon April said those affected by the fire are being assisted by the councillor and the Ward Committee members.
“Ugu District Disaster Management Unit and the municipality’s fire safety and prevention assisted with blankets and tents. Most of the owners or occupants of the homes were not available and this is thought to be due to holidays,” said Mr April.
The cause of the fire has not been determined yet however investigations are continuing by both the HCM fire department and SAPS.
