A wildfire at the Effingham informal settlement in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, that broke out on Sunday night, 18 May, has left a family mourning after claiming the life of a 29-year-old and leaving over 20 people homeless.

The deceased was burnt beyond recognition and has been identified as Ayanda Ziqethu, who is originally from Port St John’s in the Eastern Cape.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Armstrong Duma, confirmed the fatality and extended his condolences.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim of the fire that broke out in Effingham Informal Settlement last night”.

Reports indicate that 22 shacks were destroyed, affecting up to 28 residents who have become homeless overnight.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, with eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba expected to submit a report soon.

A support team from Duma’s office has been dispatched to meet Ziqethu’s grieving family.

Meanwhile, Duma and the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, are coordinating forensic efforts to recover the victim’s remains.

The MEC has also called on the Minister of Human Settlements, Thembisile Simelane, and Mayor Xaba to fast-track government relief efforts for the displaced families.