The Mabilwana family in Makhaza is relieved after they finally buried relatives who died in a shack fire at the end of the last month.
Anathi Mabilwana (28), Anelisa Mnini (28) and Bathobele Mabilwana (18) burned in a shack fire at Empolweni informal settlement on Sunday 27 August. (“Mpolweni fire claims three lives,” City Vision 7 September).
Their mother, Nopinkie Mabilwana (41), reportedly collapsed and died in hospital after she heard of the incident.
All the deceased were buried at Ottery cemetery on Saturday 16 September, ahead of a funeral service at the family house.
According to Sikhumbuzo Mabilwana, Nopinkie’s brother, the burial was conducted earlier in the day due to the nature of their remains. They were all burned beyond recognition, he explained.
“As the incident occurred on Sunday morning, Nopinkie took a bus from the Eastern Cape to Cape Town. On her arrival on Monday 28 August, after we explained to her what happened, she collapsed and died later in the hospital.”
Sikhumbuzo cited that Anelisa was from Samora Machel and she was dating Anathi. He stated that he is not aware when she is going to be buried.
He expressed gratitude to all the people who supported them during the hard times. He said it was a long four weeks for the family trying to get the means to bury their family members.
“It wasn’t easy for the family but with the help of family friends, church members and the community at large we managed to pull through. Their words of encouragement to comfort us made us strong. We wish they could do that to other family members who are facing a similar challenge,” said Sikhumbuzo.
Bathobele’s friend, Aphiwe Titus (17) from Harare, said she couldn’t believe it when she heard that her friend was dead. The emotional Titus described Bathobele as a jovial person. “I’m still hurt by her death. She didn’t deserve to die like that. She was a talkative person. She likes to laugh a lot and dance,” said Titus.
Harare Police Station spokesperson Sgt Nosiphiwo Mntengwana said an inquest docket was under investigation.