A devastating fire, fueled by hot temperatures and strong southeasterly winds, tore through the Phakamani informal settlement in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats on Monday, leaving scores homeless just weeks before Christmas.
Initial assessments indicate approximately 200 shacks were gutted in the blaze, which broke out around midday. Aid organization Gift of the Givers has stepped in with emergency relief efforts, with spokesperson Ali Sablay describing a scene of “total destruction.”
“Our team got on site, we saw total destruction… a whole section of the Phakamani informal settlement has been wiped out,” said Sablay.
The human toll is severe, with the latest estimates indicating over 500 people have been displaced. Community leaders and disaster management teams are still working to finalize the exact number of those affected.
Sablay detailed the urgent humanitarian response already underway. “We’ve activated immediate humanitarian response,” he said, noting that teams will provide breakfast to victims from Tuesday morning, followed by distributions of other essential items.
The disaster has raised immediate concerns about shelter and the impending school year. Sablay reported that local councillors are attempting to open church and school halls for temporary accommodation, as many women and children are currently sleeping in the open. Some residents have found refuge with family or friends in the area.
A significant worry for families is the loss of children’s school uniforms and stationery, with the academic year set to begin in less than two weeks. Residents have already appealed for assistance to ensure their children’s education is not interrupted.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Firefighters spent close to five hours on the scene to contain the blaze and prevent flare-ups, and will continue to monitor the area.
Gift of the Givers has issued an urgent call for donations, citing a great need for non-perishable food, mattresses, blankets, baby care packs, and hygiene packs. An emergency drop-off centre has been established at the P1 Kevin Square for public contributions.
“The latest toll is over 500 people being displaced… it’s a bleak Christmas for these fire victims,” Sablay stated, emphasizing the scale of the crisis as relief operations prepare to continue over the coming days.