Govt assists Aussenkehr fire victims after 72 reed houses are destroyed

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has assisted the victims of a fire that destroyed 72 reed houses at Aussenkehr last week.

In a press statement, spokesperson Rhingo Mutambo says the victims were provided relief in the form of 75 mattresses and blankets, 75 bottles of cooking oil (750ml), 75 bags of maize meal (20kg), 360 tins of fish (400g), 180 bags of soya mince (750g) and seven tents.

Executive director in the OPM I-Ben Nashandi says: “Our hearts go out to the affected families. We are comforted that there were no serious injuries or deaths reported. We commend the support of good Samaritans who continue to meet the government halfway to provide the affected victims with relief.”

Police chief inspector Elifas Kuwinga says the fire allegedly broke out at one reed house and spread to nearby houses.

“The wind was blowing and thus resulted in an estimated 72 reed houses being burnt to ashes. Community members lost their belongings, such as documents, food, clothes, blankets and mattresses. They are currently stranded as they don’t have anywhere to sleep,” he says.

No injuries or fatalities were recorded.