Sisulu invites the private sector to join hands with government to support the fire victims of Pormona informal settlements

Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, has noted with appreciation the swift response by the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements together with the Ekurhuleni Municipality to the fire disaster that has destroyed Pormona informal settlements leaving over 300 households homeless.

Minister Sisulu has received a briefing from officials on the rescue efforts and emergency response by the Gauteng Provincial Government.

“It is in days like these where all of us together with the private sector should join hands and support those in desperate situations. We commend organizations and individuals who have donated their time, food and other necessities to the victims. I have directed the national department to work closely with the two affected spheres of government in ensuring that all affected families have shelter over their heads”, added Sisulu.

Minister Sisulu also commended the bravery shown by fire fighters and community members who responded to the fire.

“Whilst the investigations are ongoing on what caused the fire, I would like to applaud our brave fire fighters and other rescue teams for their swift response. Without their bravery and risks they had to take more families would have been affected’, added Sisulu.

“My heart goes to women, school children and the elderly. I call on the Provincial Government and rescue teams to prioritize them”, Sisulu said.



Enquiries: Tuso Zibula on 072 127 1565 or Tuso.zibula@dhs.gov.za

Issued by the Ministry of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation
Govan Mbeki House
240 Justice Mahomed Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria
0001

Press Release Date: 
Tuesday, October 1, 2019