Swakopmund Informal Settlements Plagued by Spate of Fires

Swakopmund’s DRC informal settlement has been hit by ten fires since the beginning of the year, resulting in significant damage and casualties. These fires have affected 14 structures, caused 45 victims, and tragically resulted in three fatalities. The latest fire occurred last Saturday, destroying seven shacks and injuring a 52-year-old man. Fire Brigade Chief Bainga Matengu attributes over 40% of these incidents to illegal electrical connections, with candlelight and kitchen mishaps also contributing. Matengu emphasizes the danger of unattended fires, particularly in warm, windy conditions, advising against electrical overloads and impaired cooking.