Johannesburg building fire inquiry pins blame on housing crisis
A final report into the August 2023 fire that killed 77 residents in downtown Johannesburg cites extreme poverty and a severe lack of affordable housing, urging swift social housing reforms.
Fire Exposes Deep-Rooted Housing Crisis
South African authorities have identified extreme poverty and a severe shortage of affordable housing as key drivers behind the devastating August 2023 fire at the Usindiso building in Marshalltown, Johannesburg, which claimed 77 lives and injured many more.
Key Findings
- Only 5% of inspected buildings had evidence of rent collection by non-owners, challenging assumptions about "hijacked buildings."
- Nearly 80% of properties had fire-safety concerns; 71% lacked basic fire-safety equipment.
- Some 77% of buildings surveyed lacked running water, sanitation, refuse removal or reliable electricity.
Commission Recommendations
- Develop a comprehensive social housing plan to address inner-city shortages.
- Ensure basic services like water, electricity and waste removal are provided.
- Streamline approvals for developers and simplify tenant relocation processes.
Survivors and Official Response
One individual is on trial for alleged arson and 76 counts of murder. Survivors continue to await permanent housing solutions.
Nomzamo Zondo, executive director of the Socio-Economic Rights Institute, said the report offers "urgent direction on how to tackle a long-standing housing crisis" and hopes it will shift municipal attitudes toward unlawful occupation.
"Ultimately, political will, planning and proper resourcing are the only ways to secure dignified living conditions for Johannesburg’s inner-city poor."
This topic was reported by BBC.
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