O.R. Tambo Municipality Declares Local Disaster After Mthatha Fire

According to a statement issued by the O.R. Tambo District Municipality, the fire started at approximately 19:00 on 24 March 2026.

The blaze rapidly spread through the 11-storey building, turning what officials described as a major emergency into a race against time for firefighters and emergency teams.

Authorities confirmed that the fire is believed to have originated in a corner office near a window, although the exact cause remains unknown at this stage and will be investigated.

Emergency response prevents wider disaster

Emergency services from multiple agencies were deployed, with firefighting operations led on the ground by the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality Fire Services.

Teams worked under intense and dangerous conditions to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby areas, including parking zones filled with vehicles, which posed a significant additional risk.

Support was also provided by the South African Police Service, as well as neighbouring municipalities and government departments, highlighting a coordinated response to the incident.

No fatalities, but injuries reported

Officials confirmed that:

• No fatalities have been reported
• One emergency responder was hospitalised due to smoke inhalation

Despite the absence of loss of life, the scale of the destruction is significant.

Building “beyond salvage”

The municipality stated that the structure has suffered extensive structural damage, with no sections currently considered salvageable.

The incident has now been formally classified as a local disaster, with assessments ongoing to determine the full impact on infrastructure, surrounding businesses, and the broader Mthatha area.

Investigation underway

Authorities have indicated that a full forensic investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the fire.

Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.