​Councillor Booi and MEC Simmers have been working with National Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation Minister Lindiwe Sisulu to ensure relief and aid are fast tracked to residents of Masiphumelele. The area was declared a disaster to enable resources to be allocated for the immediate relief and response to more than 5 000 residents affected by the fire.

​​An estimated R32 million had been made available to provide temporary structures, water and sanitation facilities to affected residents. Residents will also be accommodated on a nearby sports field. Between 30 and 50 temporary structures are expected to be erected each day. The most vulnerable, which includes the elderly and disabled, will be prioritised.

'I am pleased to see the progress in Masiphumelele to date, which could only be possible through the joint efforts of all three spheres of government, NGOs and the affected community. Residents that move into their temporary structures also receive a mattress, a food hamper, and some basic cooking and kitchen utensils through the joint efforts of all concerned and affected by this fire. As we continue to speedily work toward all affected Masiphumelele residents receiving temporary structures, we shall also work toward longer term solutions for the community,' said MEC Simmers.

The Housing Development Agency (HDA) will meet with the leadership tomorrow to discuss medium to long-term solutions. A Project Steering Committee will thereafter be established. Daily meetings are being held with the leadership to engage residents.

‘This is an enormous task and one that must be done with great urgency. If all goes according to plan, all of the temporary structures on the fire-affected site will be handed over by 22 February 2020. I look forward to returning to the site soon to see the progress of the structures and all of the beneficiaries in their new homes. I want to emphasise that we cannot have new unlawful land occupations as these will directly impact on the crisis response at the moment. Thank you to the officials who have worked hard to support these residents. I wish to also thank all members of the public and organisations who have donated food items, clothing and other items as part of the community response,’ said Councillor Booi.

                                                                                           
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