A catastrophic fire erupted in the Mbare Musika retail area on Tuesday night, marking one of the worst blazes the community has seen in decades. The inferno quickly engulfed shacks and market stalls, rapidly spreading through the densely packed structures made of steel, wood, and plastic.
As the flames surged, residents scrambled to escape and salvage their belongings. Many carried large bags and pushed carts filled with their possessions, while others rushed to assist those in need amidst the chaos. The scene was marked by shattered glass and collapsing structures, accompanied by anguished cries for help.
The fire left homes in ruins, displacing families and devastating livelihoods.
Taurai Nendoro, a long-time resident, reported that the fire began around 9 PM, although the cause remains unknown. “In my 30 years here, I’ve never seen anything like this,” he shared. He explained that many residents rely on candles for light due to frequent electricity outages, making the area particularly vulnerable to fire outbreaks.
Another resident, Vimbai Dandara, expressed her despair: “It’s a disaster. I don’t even know where I will go tonight. My family has lost everything—our home, our goods, our belongings.”
The impact of the fire was severe, with Charles Gomo emphasizing the psychological toll on the community. “This is shocking,” he said, highlighting the destruction and loss of property.
The Harare City Council’s fire brigade responded swiftly, deploying three fire tenders to combat the blaze. However, they faced significant challenges, including water shortages and a large crowd obstructing their movements in the densely populated area.
Stanley Gama, spokesperson for the Harare City Council, acknowledged the critical situation at the scene. “The fire brigade is doing all it can to control the blaze. They arrived promptly and have been battling the flames for hours,” he stated. “However, the fire tenders lack the capacity to carry enough water to extinguish the fire quickly, forcing them to make repeated trips for water.”
Gama also emphasized the need for police assistance to manage the crowd and facilitate the firefighters’ work. Investigations into the fire’s cause will begin once the blaze is under control and the immediate dangers have been addressed.
As the community copes with the aftermath of this tragic event, efforts are underway to provide support and assistance to those affected.
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