UPDATE: Disable men face hardships after fire incident
Phumlani Zulu (37) and Bhekokwakhe Hlela (29) of Zamani Disabled People's Organization, said the blaze did not only destroy their personal belongings but robbed them of their identities.
THE two disabled men, who courageously escaped the blazing fire in eSikhaleni, now carry empty fists of sorrow, after flames ripped through their home last Thursday morning.
Phumlani Zulu (37) and Bhekokwakhe Hlela (29) of Zamani Disabled People’s Organization, said the blaze did not only destroy their personal belongings but robbed them of their identities.
When giant flames engulfed the house at 12.10am, the fire destroyed their tertiary qualifications certificates, identity documents, bank cards and government grant access cards.
‘We depend on disability grants, and now we won’t be able to get funds without IDs and cards. We have to obtain police affidavits, and hand them to the Department of Social Development to start the process all over again,’ said Zulu, survivor and the organisation’s secretary.
‘I lost my matric certificate, N5 Electrical Heavy Current qualification, Human Resource and other computer certificates. Now I have no identity,’ he said.
Zulu was left disabled after a shooting during a robbery in 2003, while Hlela lost his walking ability in 2002 after a gun shot injury. They were both trapped inside the house when the fire broke out, but managed to escaped unharmed.
In an exclusive interview with the Zululand Observer, the brave pair said the horrific incident left them traumatized.
Plea for help
They were both fortunate to be moved to a four-room flat opposite their old home this week. They
will temporary use the shelter until further permanent arrangements are made.
Generous community members assisted them with clothes and blankets, however the survivors still require basic house furniture and appliances such a stove, TV, fridge and food parcels.
‘Since all our belongings were destroyed, we have nothing. Our nights are very lonely without watching our favourite TV programmes or listening to the news. We plead with anyone who may be able to assist us,’ said Zulu.
On Saturday, uMhlathuze Municipality Mayor Cllr Mduduzi Mhlongo, Deputy Vera Gumbi, Speakers Cllr Mfundo Mthenjane and uThungulu Deputy Mayor Nonhle Mkhulisi visited the scene of the accident.
