President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered an investigation into the fire that ripped through a five-story building in Marshalltown early Thursday morning, killing at least 74 people.
He went on to say that the fire is a “wake-up call” for the government to provide safe homes.
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At least 12 of those who were killed were minors. About 50 others were hurt and are being treated at surrounding hospitals.
This comes after more than 12 hours of search and rescue attempts.
On Thursday evening, Ramaphosa arrived at the location for an inspection. He was accompanied by authorities from the City of Joburg and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.
“Obviously, this needs to be investigated,” said Ramaphosa, adding that officials are “setting up an investigation process, which the premier and the city will announce in due course”.
He added that ministers, MECs, the Gauteng province and the City of Joburg are working hard to ensure victims are taken care of.
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“We’ve got to get to the bottom of what caused this fire. It’s a wake-up call for us to begin to address the situation of housing in the inner city… Those who have lost their homes or accommodation are going to be catered for,” said Ramaphosa.
[WATCH] “This needs to be investigated. It’s a wake up call to begin to address the situation of housing in the inner city.” – President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Joburg CBD where over 70 people died after being
burnt by the #jhbfire. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/PALVYULkXG— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 31, 2023
