Nelspruit - Four people died and five families were left homeless in Mpumalanga after a fire burnt down seven shacks in Mashishing (Lydenburg) on Saturday.
Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs spokesperson Simphiwe Kunene said preliminary investigations indicated that the fire had been started by a candle that had fallen over in one of the shacks.
"Two adults and two children were killed in the fire and the affected families have been given food parcels, blankets and clothes. They have also been moved to temporary shelter in a nearby hostel," he said.
The department's MEC, Norman Mokoena, accompanied by Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism MEC Jabu Mahlangu and Ehlanzeni District Mayor Khosi Mkhonto visited the families on Sunday.
"The aim was to assess the extent of the damage that was caused by the fire and to express government's condolences to the families of the people who died in the fire," Kunene said.
He added that the department would conduct a detailed assessment to determine what additional assistance will be needed.
"We will also be engaging other sector departments such as home affairs, social services and education to ensure we provide the affected families with the assistance they need, including school uniforms and books for the children."
