Public Works Minister Orders Full Probe Into Deadly Soweto Building Collapse

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has instructed authorities to launch an investigation into the collapse of a double-storey building in Doornkop, Soweto, which claimed the lives of three people, including a child.

The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, December 28, when the structure gave way while several occupants were inside. Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (JEMS) confirmed that emergency teams were alerted shortly after 3am.

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Six people were in the building at the time of the collapse. Three were trapped beneath the rubble, but all six were eventually rescued and rushed to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.

A child and two adult women later died from their injuries. The conditions of the remaining three patients have not yet been made public.

Government Orders Council for the Built Environment Investigation

Macpherson said he had formally requested the Council for the Built Environment (CBE) to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

The inquiry will focus on establishing the cause of the failure, identifying any parties responsible and recommending steps to prevent similar incidents in future.

“This is a deeply distressing incident. My thoughts and condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and with all those who were injured as a result of this tragic collapse,” Macpherson said.

He stressed that the process would be conducted thoroughly and transparently, in collaboration with all relevant regulatory authorities.

Public Works Emphasises Construction Safety and Accountability

The minister reiterated that the safety of construction workers and members of the public remains a top priority for the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

“As the department, we are committed to accountability and to ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to strengthen safety and oversight across the construction sector, in order to protect both workers and the public,” he said.

Macpherson added that the department would respect due process and cooperate fully with all regulatory bodies during the investigation, noting that appropriate action would be taken once all facts have been established.

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