FREE STATE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT RESPONDS WITH COMPASSION AFTER THABONG SHACK FIRE

By Thembile Nqabeni

• ⁠MEC Mathabo Leeto led a coordinated effort to support the Zweni family after a shack fire left them with nothing.
• ⁠Launch of the Molo Makhelwane Programme: The MEC described how this initiative aims to promote community care and address social issues.
• ⁠Residents are urged to obtain certified electrical compliance to prevent similar tragedies.

On 12 June 2025, the Free State Department of Social Development, led by MEC Mathabo Leeto, together with Ms Claudia Mangwegabe, Free State Provincial Manager of the South African Red Cross Society, and various local church leaders, visited the Zweni family in Thabong, Welkom, following a devastating shack fire.
The fire, which occurred on 7 June and was caused by an electrical fault, destroyed the family’s home and belongings. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, as no one was inside the shack at the time of the incident.
In response, the Department, in collaboration with stakeholders, including businesses, NPOs, and churches, came together to offer support and relief. The family received essentials, including children’s school uniforms (through SASSA), food parcels, blankets, mattresses, clothing, toiletries, and kitchenware. Local businesspeople also pledged to rebuild the family’s home.
MEC Leeto commended the collaborative effort, emphasizing the importance of a caring and united community. She highlighted how the Department’s Molo Makhelwane Programme will strengthen neighbourhood bonds and address social challenges through household profiling and referrals for support.
“It’s heartwarming to witness the elderly and church members rallying around families during disasters,” said MEC Leeto.
She also urged residents to ensure their homes have certified electrical compliance and to consult qualified electricians at least once or twice a year to prevent such incidents from occurring.
Ms Busisiwe Zweni expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying:
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you—ke a leboga ho menahane ka thuso yohle, le ka uniform ya ngwana.”
Community members, leaders, NPOs, and churches are encouraged to support Molo Makhelwane Community Builders and Departmental Officials who will be visiting households to conduct community profiling. This process is essential to improve service delivery and better respond to the needs of our communities.