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A fire has severely damaged the historic Botha Sigcawu Building in Mthatha on 24 March 2026.
The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure confirmed the incident in a media statement released the same day.
Emergency teams, including firefighters from the OR Tambo District Municipality, are currently on site managing the situation.
What happened
According to the statement, the fire caused significant damage to the Botha Sigcawu Building, which houses several government departments.
The cause of the fire has not been stated.
Officials from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure are working alongside emergency personnel at the scene.
Official response
MEC Siphokazi Lusithi said government is “deeply concerned” about the incident.
Government has committed to engaging affected departments urgently to ensure business continuity and reduce disruption to public services.
The MEC is expected to visit the site on 25 March 2026 to assess the situation.
Authorities say further details, including temporary service arrangements, will be communicated once available.
Impact on the community
The building is used by multiple government departments, meaning service delivery in Mthatha and the OR Tambo District could be affected.
Government says contingency plans are being put in place to ensure critical services continue.
What happens next
Officials will assess the full extent of the damage and determine next steps, including possible restoration of the building.
Updates are expected after the MEC’s site visit.
