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Deadly South African building fire blamed on lack of affordable housing

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African

Johannesburg’s deadly building fire exposes South Africa’s affordable housing crisis and failures in urban planning. Photo: Unsplash


Deadly South African Building Fire Highlights Affordable Housing Crisis

In August 2023, tragedy struck Johannesburg when a devastating fire tore through the Usindiso building in Marshalltown, leaving 77 people dead and dozens more injured. The disaster shocked South Africa, raising urgent questions about urban housing conditions in Africa’s wealthiest city. Two years later, the final report into the fire has shed light on the underlying issues—and the findings paint a grim picture of extreme poverty, unsafe housing, and official neglect.

Root Causes: Poverty and Housing Inequality

Authorities say that “extreme poverty and a severe lack of affordable housing” were the primary drivers behind the disaster. Although “hijacked buildings”—where criminal groups illegally occupy structures and charge rent—have often been blamed for inner-city housing problems, the commission found these were not the central issue. In fact, only 5% of surveyed buildings had allegations of non-owners collecting rent. Instead, the tragedy exposed deep housing inequalities and the desperate conditions many people endure.

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Hazardous Living Conditions

African
Johannesburg’s deadly building fire exposes South Africa’s affordable housing crisis and failures in urban planning.  Photo: Unsplash

The commission of inquiry revealed shocking details about the state of Johannesburg’s abandoned and repurposed buildings. Overcrowding was common, with flimsy partitions of plywood, cardboard, or fabric used to divide spaces into “rooms.” Many buildings had blocked fire escapes, creating death traps in emergencies. Almost 80% of the properties inspected had fire-safety concerns, and 71% lacked fire-safety equipment such as alarms or extinguishers.

The lack of basic services compounded the danger. Some 77% of buildings had no access to running water, electricity, sanitation, or waste removal. This absence of infrastructure made them not only unsafe but also highly vulnerable to catastrophic fires.

A Criminal Trial Still Underway

One man, Sthembiso Mdlalose, is currently on trial for his alleged role in starting the blaze. He initially confessed to igniting the fire but later recanted in court. He now faces 76 counts of murder and other charges, to which he has pleaded not guilty. The case has been closely watched, but many experts argue the responsibility extends far beyond a single individual.

Findings from the Commission of Inquiry

Following the fire, a commission was tasked with uncovering both the causes of the disaster and the wider housing problems plaguing Johannesburg. Investigating over 110 buildings, the commission identified widespread neglect and systemic failures.

Key recommendations included:

  • Developing a comprehensive plan to address Johannesburg’s social housing crisis.

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  • Installing basic services like water, sanitation, electricity, and waste removal in inner-city buildings.

  • Streamlining processes for developers to reduce red tape and encourage investment.

  • Relocating residents from unsafe structures into dignified housing without lengthy delays.

These proposals emphasize that solutions must go beyond cracking down on unlawful occupation and instead tackle the root causes of housing insecurity.

Survivors Still Waiting for Change

Despite promises, survivors of the Usindiso fire have yet to be relocated into permanent homes. Many continue to live in unsafe, temporary conditions. Speaking on the anniversary of the disaster, survivors expressed frustration, fear, and despair, saying they remain vulnerable to the same risks that claimed so many lives two years ago.

Civil Society Calls for Urgent Action

Nomzamo Zondo, Executive Director of the Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI), welcomed the commission’s findings, calling them a “clear direction on how to tackle a long-standing housing crisis.” She added:

“The commission’s myth-busting about unlawful occupation should change how Johannesburg’s politicians and officials view the problem. Ultimately, political will, planning, and proper resourcing are the only way to give the inner-city poor dignified living conditions.”

A Test for Johannesburg’s Leaders

The fire was more than a tragedy—it was a wake-up call about the housing crisis that continues to deepen in Johannesburg. For many, the commission’s report represents a chance to confront decades of inequality and mismanagement. But without decisive political action, the lives of thousands of residents in unsafe buildings remain at risk.

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