This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Five locations in Qumbu under the Mhlontlo Local Municipality, including Nyanisweni, have been severely affected by fires driven by strong winds, resulting in the loss of homes, livestock, and farms.
On July 7, Nyanisweni was one of the areas impacted by a fire that originated from Mthondela. The blaze destroyed homes, 14 goats, and electricity poles.
The fire was accidentally started by children from Jikijela home in Mthondela. Within moments, the wind carried embers to Nyanisweni, sparking a devastating fire.
Lubabalo Mgodeli shared his experience, stating, “I was on my way to Cape Town, and no one was at my home when the fire started. It burned down my rondavel and damaged the electricity cables.”
He added, “We are now living in the dark and have to go to the other side of the village to charge our phones.”
Lwandiso Nqulushe reported the incident to the offices of Mhlontlo and Disaster Management, but only representatives from the animal department came to inspect the damage. Farmers have promised to escalate the issue to management.
Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, visited Zilandani Location on Monday, July 15, 2024, to deliver essential supplies to farmers affected by the recent veld fires in Qumbu. The fires, which affected multiple villages in wards 17 and 19, including Zilandani, Tsilithwa, Nyanisweni, Mtondela, and Mahlungulu, resulted in the loss of 200 animals: 171 sheep and 29 goats, with 38 others injured.
Mhlontlo Local Municipality spokesperson, Mamela Magcotywa, stated, “We conducted an assessment and requested urgent intervention from the department after witnessing the disaster.”
Local farmers, through their association, have requested assistance from the department and called for a declaration of disaster. The Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform will focus on providing immediate relief, supporting livestock recovery, and aiding in long-term rehabilitation efforts.
