Tragedy in Ekurhuleni, families left with nothing after fire reduces homes to ashes

Mapaballo Borotho

A devastating fire in Pomona Informal Settlement, Kempton Park, has left dozens homeless and destroyed over 180 homes.
Residents say the flames spread too fast to stop, leaving families with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze as the city appeals for caution and aid for the displaced.

Heartbreak and devastation swept through the Pomona Informal Settlement in Kempton Park on Sunday, after a raging fire tore through the community, leaving dozens of people homeless and destroying more than 180 homes.

According to the City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services, the blaze broke out shortly after midday and spread rapidly through the tightly packed shacks, fueled by strong winds.

Within minutes, families watched helplessly as their homes and belongings were consumed by flames.

Residents say the fire moved too quickly to be controlled.

“It spread so fast, we couldn’t even grab our clothes,” one distraught resident shared with the media as firefighters battled to contain the inferno.

Though no injuries or deaths were reported, the scale of destruction has left hundreds without shelter, food, or clothing.

The City of Ekurhuleni has urged residents in informal settlements to take extreme caution when using open flames, stoves, or heating devices especially as windy conditions persist.

The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.