Kamgewane survivors count losses as homes remain in ruins after storm
Displaced residents rely on neighbours while Ward 17 councillor Sizwe Mathebula appeals for building material donations.
Four families in Ward 17, Kamgewane, face a long road to recovery after a tree that destroyed their homes was finally removed.
On the night of August 10, heavy rain brought disaster when the tree fell, tearing off roofs and trapping residents inside. Ten people were left without shelter, food, or blankets.
Survivor Mcabangiseni Xulu recalled how he narrowly escaped: “Honestly, this is where I can say God worked. Everything happened so fast, and I managed to push the bed to the other corner and escape through the window.”
One of the most frightening moments for them came when a woman was trapped inside her home. Neighbours rushed to cut through branches to free her, and she was taken to hospital. Luckily, she escaped without serious injuries.
READ MORE: Woman survives massive tree collapse at Kamgewane home
Crews clear site after days of delay
For days, the fallen tree blocked the damaged houses, leaving families unable to recover their belongings. Municipal teams admitted they lacked the tools to remove it, but on August 13 another team stepped in and cleared the site.
Families could finally salvage what little remained. “We lost almost everything, including TVs. We don’t even know where to start,” said Ishmael Phaoane.
Councillor appeals for building materials
Ward 17 councillor Sizwe Mathebula confirmed that food parcels sponsored by a local butchery were provided.
“I’m on top of the situation, and I’ve been conducting visits every day. I am just waiting for a good Samaritan who can help us with building materials,” he said.
Despite these efforts, the families say they remain homeless and vulnerable. They rely on neighbours for temporary shelter while engaging with social workers for help. The land belongs to a local company, limiting residents’ power to make decisions. Attempts to reach both the company and municipal spokesperson Lebo Mofokeng for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Four families in Kamgewane are seeking assistance. They have been left without shelter after heavy rainfall destroyed their houses last night (August 10).
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) August 11, 2026
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