Raging fire destroys flashy lodge
Inferno causes damage of R10m
The Matsila community near Elim in Limpopo is still reeling in shock after a raging fire mysteriously burnt down a multi-million rand lodge on Thursday, causing the damage of R10-million.
Two weeks ago, President Cyril Ramaphosa, who had his statue unveiled on the property, visited and hailed the Joe Matsila Lodge as a symbol of black excellence.
The 24-roomed lodge, which is under the Matsila Community Development Trust, and led by Chief Livhuwani Matsila, boasts a fully equipped conference centre, swimming pools and a huge dining area. The lodge has hosted a number of high-profile events, including weddings and conferences.
The lodge’s owner, Matsila, said they did not know what caused the fire.
“Preliminary investigation indicated that the fire was started from the thatched roof,” Matsila said.
He said he suspected that a blaze in his lodge could have been caused by fires from neighbouring houses.
“The total damage caused is R10-million. We are shocked by the incident, however, we feel grateful that nobody got injured or died,” he said.
The lodge employs people.
Security guard Livhuwani Netshitungulu, 45, said she was not on duty on Thursday, but she rushed to the scene after she learnt of the raging fire. 50
“When I got there at about 3pm, it was chaotic,” Netshitungulu said.
“We had to cancel a wedding that was supposed to have taken place on Saturday,” Netshitungulu said.
Limpopo premier Stanley Mathabatha sent a message of sympathy.
“Matsila Lodge is a symbol of black excellence.
“We hope its legacy and the employment opportunities created here will not go down in dust,” Mathabatha said.
Police spokesperson Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe said they were investigating what caused the fire.