Nelson Mandela Bay helps fire victims

The Eastern Cape’s Nelson Mandela Bay municipality has said it will help the families left homeless by an informal settlement fire.

“A multi-disciplinary task team was established to work together with representatives of the affected community to guide relief efforts,” mayor Zanoxolo Wayile said yesterday.

On Thursday, 300 shacks were destroyed by a fire in the Chris Hani informal settlement in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth, leaving about 2 000 people homeless.

“As a first priority, the municipality is providing the affected residents with temporary shelter at the Ithembelihle and Phillip Nikiwe schools, and food. Victims with health problems will be attended to.”

The municipality has already contacted the department of home affairs to ensure that those who have lost documentation are issued with replacement copies.

The municipality met with the Gift of the Givers yesterday to co-ordinate efforts. The charity would provide two meals a day for affected residents, until Monday, and build 100 shelters.

– Sapa