By Dr Moselane Du-Plessis
Afrika Mayibuye Movements Tshwane Regional leader
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement is deeply saddened by the devastating fire
that broke out on Saturday, 11 October 2025, at the Siblicon informal
settlement near Sefako Makgatho Drive in Derdepoort, Tshwane.
The fire destroyed around seventy (70) shacks, displacing more than one hundred
and fifty (150) families.
We are, however, thankful that no lives were lost and that all residents were
able to evacuate safely.
This is a testament to the courage and solidarity of the community and the swift response of local emergency services.
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement extends its heartfelt support and solidarity
to all affected families.
Our representatives are engaging with local authorities, humanitarian organizations, and community leaders to ensure that immediate relief including temporary shelter, food, clothing, and
essential supplies reaches those in need without delay.
This tragedy once again exposes the ongoing injustice and neglect faced by
thousands of South Africans living in informal settlements.
It is unacceptable that, thirty years into democracy, so many of our people still live without safe housing, electricity, or proper infrastructure, making them vulnerable to disasters of this nature.
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement calls for urgent action to:
● Accelerate the upgrading of informal settlements and provision of dignified housing.
● Strengthen fire prevention and disaster response capacity in high-risk
communities.
● Hold authorities accountable for ensuring that the most vulnerable are
not left behind in service delivery.
We reaffirm our commitment to building a just, humane, and equitable South
Africa one where no family is forced to rebuild their lives from ashes
because of poverty and government inaction.
Our movement stands ready to work with all partners including local residents, civil society, and progressive institutions — to bring lasting change and safety to our communities.
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