In response to the recent fire disasters in the Western Cape that has affected four major informal settlements in the space of four days, the MTN SA Foundation has donated a total of R300,000 to Gift of the Givers to bring a sense of relief to the over 2,000 people who have been affected by these disasters.
This past weekend, the SST Section in Khayelitsha were victims of a fire blaze with 82 structures burnt down, affecting close to 300 residents. In the same week, an extensive fire broke out and spread through the Langa township – destroying 30 shacks and eight hostels, displacing an additional 120 people.
These fires follow the devastating fire blaze that occurred at the Kayamandi informal settlement over the festive period, where over 1,500 residents were displaced.
MTN employees from the Western Cape regional office visited the latest disaster areas to aid Gift of the Givers volunteers in clearing thedebris and handing over food hampers to destitute families.
MTN’s donation will be used to purchase urgent items and restore the immediate amenities needed by the affected communities. This includes school uniforms, stationery packs, food parcels and other essential goods and services for the community affected by the fires in and around Cape Town.
Emphasising the MTN Foundation’s dedication to making a tangible impact on underprivileged communities throughout the nation, Noluthando Pama, MTN SA General Manager for Regional Operations in the Western Cape adds, “We are proud to support the communities of Kayamandi in the Western Cape by donating food parcels and essential items to the victims of fires. At MTN, we believe in the power of community and are committed to making a positive impact, particularly during times of hardship. We hope that our contribution will help ease some of the challenges faced by the displaced residents.”
Main Image: MTN