ETHEKWINI deputy mayor Zandile Myeni visited the disaster-prone Dakota Beach informal settlement in Prospecton on July 29 to oversee the installation of fire and smoke detectors aimed at improving safety for residents.

Also read: Fire devastates Dakota Beach informal settlement

The devices, donated by Astron Energy, are part of a broader effort to address the ongoing risks faced by communities living in high-density, informal housing areas. Dakota Beach has experienced several devastating fires over the years, with many families losing homes and belongings.

“We are taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of fire and improve emergency response. We’re grateful to Astron Energy for supporting the municipality’s efforts to protect our most vulnerable residents,” said Myeni.

The installation marks the beginning of a phased rollout of safety technology across other informal settlements in the region. Municipal officials and local disaster management teams were on site to demonstrate how the detectors work and educate residents on fire prevention measures.

Astron Energy representatives said the donation forms part of their corporate social investment initiatives, focusing on community safety and resilience.

Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.