Statement by Acting Mayor of Cape Town, Alderman Eddie Andrews

The City of Cape Town continues its efforts in Langa to support persons affected by a fire on Saturday, 16 April 2022.

The Disaster Risk Management Centre and Informal Settlements Management have completed the registration process, confirming that 260 structures were destroyed in the fire, affecting 767 individuals.

This is lower than the initial estimates, and for that we are very grateful.

City services have been on the ground since just after 18:00 on Saturday evening – minutes after the Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the incident.

It has been challenging, but I commend everyone who has had a hand in extinguishing the fire and ensuring that no lives were lost, and who have been on scene around the clock since, to provide support and relief to the residents who have lost everything.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Gift of the Givers continue to provide humanitarian assistance in the form of meals and sanitary packs.

The City’s Water and Sanitation Department is delivering 10 chemical toilets to the site later this week.

The Solid Waste Department has not been able to clear the fire debris yet, as some residents have started to rebuild their structures.

While emergency shelter was made available at a local church hall, the demand has been very low, as most individuals prefer to stay with friends or relatives.

A faith-based organisation has offered school stationery and clothing, to be delivered by the the end of the week, and a local church has opened its doors to women and children during the day.

The City has also made available donation points where residents who have the means can donate blankets, non-perishable food, disposable nappies, baby food, sanitary items and other materials.

The following drop off points are available for donations:

• The Urban Rural Development (083 521 0328), City of Cape Town Housing Department, cnr. Langalibalele Drive and Lerotholi Avenue, Langa

• Mustadafin Foundation (076 422 1667), corner of Heide and Antelope Court, Bridgetown.

The City extends its gratitude to members of the public who have heeded the call to assist Langa residents in their time of need.

The administration will continue to do everything within its power to help those affected by this devastating incident to get back on their feet.

Source: City Of Cape Town