The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre has completed its assessment following a fire that swept through the Tsepe Tsepe Informal Settlement in Khayelitsha yesterday.
The fire destroyed 177 structures, affecting 377 residents and leaving many displaced and in need of urgent assistance.
“The City’s Informal Settlements Management Branch is on site and has approached National Human Settlements to support rebuilding efforts, although some residents have already started reconstructing their homes. Others are staying with friends and family nearby,” said Disaster Risk Management Centre spokesperson Charlotte Powell.
In the meantime, the City is working with local community leaders and religious organisations to provide emergency shelter and support. Humanitarian agencies, including SASSA, the Department of Social Development, and Gift of the Givers, have also arrived on site to assist with immediate relief, including food, blankets, and other essentials.
Infrastructure repair efforts are underway, with Eskom and the City’s Water and Sanitation Department deployed to restore electricity, water supply, and ablution facilities.
Powell added, “We continue to coordinate with all stakeholders to ensure affected residents receive the support they need, while prioritising the safety and basic needs of the community as rebuilding efforts begin.”
The City urges residents to remain vigilant and report any hazards as recovery operations continue in the settlement.
VOC News
Photo: Gift of the Givers
