A family in Kwa-Thema, Mthembu Village experienced a traumatic ordeal in the early hours of December 13 after parts of their home were destroyed by a fire.
Matshidiso Kubheka (42) was at home when the incident occurred at approximately 04:30. Kubheka said she had returned home around 00:30 after celebrating her birthday the previous evening. Feeling exhausted, she lay down on the couch to rest.
“I got home and fell asleep on the couch, but I was woken up by the smell of smoke,” she said.
The smoke was coming from the kitchen. When she went to investigate, she found that the cabinets above the stove were already engulfed in flames.
“The fire was spreading rapidly across the kitchen. Within moments, it had reached the ceiling and started spreading through the house,” she explained.
Realising the danger, Kubheka immediately fled through the back door and ran to call for help. Neighbours rushed to the scene and tried to extinguish the fire, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Emergency services were later called and managed to contain the blaze before it spread further.
“I do not know what caused the fire, but this situation has drained us both emotionally and physically. The children are traumatised, and we are left with so many unanswered questions,” said Kubheka.
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She added that the kitchen, dining room, and an outside room were completely burnt out. Kubheka appealed to the community for assistance, saying any form of help would be deeply appreciated.
“We would appreciate anything, from teaspoons to plates and other household items. Despite everything, I still have to return to work as if nothing happened. It’s painful,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to her neighbours, friends, and extended family for the support they have shown during this difficult time.
The cause of the fire remains unknown.
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