Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Yolanda Mlilo, Sunday News Reporter
IF you thought that imperialism has washed away the surviving vestiges of the philosophy of Ubuntu whose guiding principles are empathy, humanity, humility and interconnectedness as defined by the “I am because we are, because we are therefore I am” aphorism, then you may need to visit the residents of New Lobengula in Bulawayo.
They have demonstrated that Ubuntu remains the glue that sticks African communities together by taking the initiative to assist a family that lost property valued at ZiG100 000 in a recent inferno suspected to have been caused by a candle.
The fire broke out on 16 December engulfing the property in it in a raging flame leaving it in ruins and destroying all the roofing sheets.
The incident resulted in four family members being hospitalised due to burns and smoke inhalation, necessitating their emergency transfer to Mpilo Central Hospital for treatment.
But in a remarkable display of communism, residents organised themselves and pledged to assist the affected family so that they regain their shelter and a safe accommodation space that protects them against the vagaries of harsh weather characterised by rain.
The community said they recognised that while fire outbreaks and other accidents are sometimes inevitable, it is crucial to foster a spirit of mutual support and collaboration in pursuit of the spirit of humanity.
In an interview with Sunday News, Ward 11 Councillor Susan Sithole from where the suburb falls highlighted the importance of community solidarity in times of need.
“For four days, the family was without assistance. To encourage the residents in the art of giving, I pledged to help with roofing materials, and soon after that the community began to lend a helping hand,” she said.
Other residents also began to pledge support for the affected family while others went out of their way to engage donors who were all but willing to assist.
“I sought assistance and managed to secure bags of maize from the Government and medical assistance for the injured 14-year-old boy,” she continued.
Clr Sithole stressed the necessity of collective efforts for community progress.
“We reached out to the city council for help, but at that time, many roofs had been damaged by rain so the city council couldn’t assist. Our property was so severely affected that we had to take action ourselves.
I found an affordable builder who charged US$380, and the community contributed 1 000 rand. We are still in search of funds to connect electricity and repair the windows,” she added.
Following the fire incident, the community and their councillor arranged alternative accommodation for the family.
“We set up a tent for them since they couldn’t stay in the damaged house. We were advised that the foundation of the house was no longer stable and required cement reinforcement and we looked for the cement,” she explained.
She also urged residents to consider using safer lighting options, as candles pose significant fire risks.
Ms Sizalobuhle Moyo, one of the tenants affected by the fire, expressed her heartfelt gratitude towards the community.
“The residents have been incredibly supportive, providing us with food and roofing materials. I am truly thankful for their assistance, especially since these resources are not in abundance. People are struggling out there but if someone can spare something to give to a stranger then that is a demonstration of the spirit of Ubuntu,” she said.
The affected family continues to seek help to replace window panes and pay up the builder’s bill.
