Atlantic Fire & Rescue responded immediately

On Thursday, 6 November at 17:00, tragedy struck when a fire tore through the Wingfield Refugee Camp in Cape Town, completely destroying the main tent and the makeshift shelters that hundreds of displaced individuals called home.

In the aftermath, more than 300 people were left without proper shelter and are now living in what remains of the camp’s kitchen structures. These spaces, never meant for habitation, are now overcrowded and pose a very high fire risk. The scene is heartbreaking — families left with nothing, uncertain of their next steps, and in desperate need of support.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, Atlantic Fire & Rescue (AFR) mobilised immediately. On Monday, 10 November, AFR conducted fire safety and awareness training for 30 volunteers at the camp and provided essential supplies to help reduce the fire risk and support basic needs.

Donations included:

• 10 fire extinguishers
• 10 first aid kits
• 500 oranges
• 20 packets of bananas
• 3 bags of potatoes

“We are here at the Wingfield Refugee Camp that unfortunately burned down on Thursday afternoon,” said AFR Commander Paul Krüger.
“People are now living in the kitchens — over 250 of them — cooking and making fires in a confined space, which is extremely dangerous. We trained 30 volunteers and donated extinguishers and first aid kits to help them protect what little they have left. This is a very sad and desperate situation, and we are doing everything we can to help.”

In addition to providing training and emergency aid, AFR is actively coordinating with the City of Cape Town, the Department of Home Affairs, and the United Nations Council for Refugees to seek long-term assistance and stability for the affected residents.

A local community leader expressed heartfelt gratitude while also sharing the harsh reality facing those who remain at the camp:

“Thank you very much for giving us whatever is here, especially for those fire extinguishers. We are very happy to have them because we are too many and living in the kitchens. The rain is coming, and we are outside. If another fire starts, we will be totally destroyed — we have already lost everything. We are waiting for assistance and hope the authorities will help us soon.”

Atlantic Fire & Rescue has committed to returning on Thursday with additional food and supplies and will continue monitoring the situation closely in the coming weeks.

This mission stands as a reminder that behind every disaster are human lives — families, children, and communities who need care, compassion, and support. AFR remains steadfast in its mission to empower, protect, and stand with those in crisis.

To everyone affected — you are not forgotten. To our volunteers and partners — we salute you.

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