The Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URCSA) has issued an urgent appeal to its members, congregations, and the broader community to provide immediate relief to families affected by the devastating fire in the Kayamandi informal settlement, near Stellenbosch, Cape Town.
The fire, which broke out on December 31, 2024, has left over 150 people displaced, destroying homes, belongings, and essential items, including food, school stationery, and clothing bought through savings and stokvel contributions.
In a media statement, URCSA Moderator Reverend Professor Leepo Modise expressed concern over the challenges facing the Kayamandi community, including poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential services, all of which have been worsened by this tragedy.
“Our hearts go out to the families and individuals who have lost their homes, belongings – moreover food, school clothes, and stationery that were bought by stokvel monies and other savings in this tragic event,” said Reverend Professor Modise, who issued a statement on behalf of URCSA General Synod.
The Kayamandi fire is among several others reported in informal settlements across the Western Cape during the festive season, including Masiphumelele in Fishhoek, Nomzamo in Strand, Joe Slovo in Langa, and Danoon.
The URCSA called on the provincial and local governments to take action, emphasising the need for adequate fire services and housing for informal settlements.
“We also call upon the provincial and local governments in this area to provide proper fire services, as social media has recorded that the fire truck did not have enough water to extinguish the fire… We, therefore, called for the government and businesspeople in Stellenbosch, in particular, and Western Cape, in general, to provide the people of Kayamandi and other informal Settlements with proper houses to equal the standard of living of the people of Stellenbosch as it is widely known that Stellenbosch is one of the riches places in South Africa.” Revered Professor Modise added in the statement.
The church reiterated its commitment to working alongside authorities, relief organisations, and community leaders to support affected families and address the systemic issues that contribute to such tragedies.
