Tragic Shack Fire Claims Life of Disabled Woman, Leaves Sister Hospitalized
On Tuesday, August 13, a devastating shack fire in Ekurhuleni claimed the life of Nomthandazo Hlomendlini and left her twin sister, Xola, hospitalized. The tragedy unfolded when a pillow accidentally fell onto a heater, igniting the blaze. The sisters, both living with disabilities, were unable to escape the flames in time. Despite their efforts to call for help, their cries were not heard until it was too late.

Unsuccessful RDP Housing Applications
The family’s heartbreaking story is further compounded by the fact that RDP housing applications for the two sisters had been made as far back as 2019. However, the applications had not yet been successful by the time of the tragedy. The delayed response to these housing needs underscores a significant gap in the system, leaving vulnerable individuals without adequate support.
MEC Tasneem Motara Visits Affected Family
In the aftermath of the fire, Gauteng MEC for the Department of Human Settlements, Ms. Tasneem Motara, paid a visit to the victims. Her visit highlighted the dire need for immediate interventions to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The MEC’s presence brought some comfort to the grieving family, but the loss they suffered is immeasurable.
Family Spokesperson Recounts the Tragedy
Phaello Mmole, a cousin and family spokesperson, provided a harrowing account of the event. “They saw when the fire started but struggled to move, and their screams were not loud enough to be heard. That day, it was cold, and most people had closed themselves inside their houses. People only recognized it was burning when it was too late,” she told Soapie SecretsSA News.
The shack fire has left an entire family without accommodation, highlighting the urgent need for better housing solutions for vulnerable communities. This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of delayed responses to the housing crisis.