Masi fire victims rebuild their lives from ashes

HUNDREDS of Masiphumelele residents have started the difficult task of rebuilding their homes following a devastating fire last week, which left 4000people destitute.

The fire destroyed 1100 homes, and by yesterday, the City had delivered 300emergency rebuilding kits, said Mayco member for Human Settlements Benedicta van Minnen. The kits consist of 20nails, eight corrugated sheets, a window, door, handle and lock.

The site has been cleared by bulldozers and the City has started reblocking the area, creating wider streets to make it easier for emergency vehicles to get to situations.

Living Hope Foundation, the SA Red Cross Foundation and Mustadafin Foundation will hand over donated goods.

Mustadafin Foundation director Ghairunisa Johnstone-Cassiem said the victims still needed clothing and food. She said people also needed homeware items. Though holidays are about to start, children will need school uniform and stationery.

SA Red Cross Society provincial manager Levona van Aarde said: “We definitely need more donations so the affected people can rebuild their lives.”

Mlungisi Gela, 31, said he started rebuilding at the weekend. “All I have to rebuild is what I received from the City and my house is halfway built. I lost everything in the fire.”

“The government needs to build us proper houses, otherwise history will repeat itself,” said Gela.

Anyone who wishes to donate should contact Living Hope Foundation on 021 784 2800 or the Mustadafin Foundation on 021 633 0010. The SA Red Cross Foundation can be contacted on 021 797 5360. sandiso.phaliso@inl.co.za

@PhalisoSandiso