National government proposes new strategy for Masiphumelele fire victims
23 December 2020
Yesterday, the City and the Western Cape Government presented short and long-term plans for the Masiphumelele area to the Minister for Human Settlements, Lindiwe Sisulu. The long-term development plans have been finalised as led by National Government, which has since made more than R50 million available for services in the fire-affected area. The City of Cape Town had earlier initiated a process of disaster declaration following the fire last week to secure funding for building kits and the restoration of services. However, a new strategy has been identified as the way forward.
The City notes the announcements by the National Minister Lindiwe Sisulu regarding the updated plans for Masiphumelele, as well as the use of immediate shelter options for the affected residents. The City is committed to ensuring the well-being of those affected and will work to support the proposed interventions.
As the new process unfolds, we kindly ask that the Masiphumelele leadership structures do not encourage residents affected by the recent fire to rebuild on site.
A multi-agency and department response has been ongoing at the site to ensure an urgent response to the residents’ plight:
- Four bulldozers are on site, clearing the significant volume of debris, which has been complicated by the fact that it is in a wetland, making the ground soft and difficult for these heavy duty vehicles to manoeuvre. However, Solid Waste Management Department officials are continuing to work hard to clear the affected site.
- The City’s Informal Settlements Management Department has registered all 1 300 fire-affected heads of household thus far. All the members of the households have been verified as well. The process has been completed. The Informal Settlements Management Department continues to assist with queries on site. The registration process includes special assistance to medically vulnerable people who are in need of medication that has been destroyed in the fire and assistance to the elderly.
- The City has added two storage facilities for donated items. Thanks to the generous donations and concern from Capetonians, additional storage is required because of the large volumes of donations that have been received. The City of Cape Town is grateful for the assistance of Gift of the Givers, Living Hope, Respond Church Consortium and Emmanuel TV for its humanitarian assistance.
• An on site Joint Operations Centre was established by the City’s Disaster Risk Management and regular briefings with all the important role-players are taking place to facilitate coordination and management of the disaster.
There is still an appeal to members of the public to please donate essential items such as blankets, baby food, nappies, baby milk and non-perishable food to Living Hope in Masiphumelele.
To donate, please contact Living Hope which is coordinating the relief efforts: 082 465 9067. The City thanks Living Hope, Gift of the Givers, Respond Church Consortium and Emmanuel TV for their assistance.
It is believed many affected residents are staying with friends and family in the area.
The South African Social Security Agency has been in contact with the City’s Human Settlements Department to provide social relief assistance.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
