A large fire broke out in Mandela Park, Imizamo Yethu West, in Hout Bay, early on Sunday morning, October 11, 2026. Firefighters were called to the scene at 3:45 am and spent nearly three hours bringing the blaze under control. The City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service responded quickly, dispatching fire engines from several stations, including Hout Bay, Constantia, and Wynberg.
The fire was eventually contained at 6:43 am, but damping down operations were expected to take a considerable amount of time due to the heavy fuel load in the area. Firefighters remained at the scene to ensure the area was safe. The cause of the fire is currently unknown, and the number of dwellings and residents affected has not been confirmed.
Community activist Roscoe Jacobs called for urgent assistance for affected residents, highlighting the need to address the housing crisis in Imizamo Yethu. Jacobs urged the DA-led City of Cape Town to move the Imizamo Yethu Phase 3 project forward, delivering homes to residents. He also requested assistance from the National Department of Human Settlements, SASSA, and Home Affairs.
Several organizations, including Gift of the Givers, the Imizamo Yethu Development Forum, and Thula Thula, are providing assistance to affected residents. The City's Disaster Risk Management team is also on the scene, providing support. The fire has raised concerns about the need for housing in Imizamo Yethu, with residents calling for action.
The City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service deployed a significant response to the fire, including water tankers from Gugulethu, Kraaifontein, Mitchell's Plain, and Epping. An Incident Management Team was also dispatched due to the size of the fire and the hazards involved. Mark Bosch, spokesperson for the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service, provided updates on the fire response.
The fire has had a significant impact on the community, with many residents affected. However, fortunately, no injuries were reported. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and the number of residents and structures affected will be confirmed once crews have completed their assessment.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents in Imizamo Yethu, including the need for adequate housing and emergency services. The City of Cape Town and other organizations are working to provide assistance to affected residents, but more needs to be done to address the underlying issues.
Key points
- The fire in Imizamo Yethu has raised concerns about the need for housing in the area.
- The City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service responded quickly to the fire, deploying multiple fire engines and water tankers.
- Community activist Roscoe Jacobs is calling for urgent assistance for affected residents and for the City to deliver homes to residents.
