A resident has died following a fire at Central Hostel in Soshanguve, a tragedy that has since sparked protests and renewed scrutiny over living conditions at the property.
The fire broke out on the evening of Friday, 12 June 2026. Emergency services responded to the scene, but one person was declared dead. Investigations into the cause of the blaze are ongoing.
In the aftermath of the incident, residents staged a protest on Monday, 15 June 2026, calling for urgent government intervention. Community leaders say the fatal fire has exposed long-standing problems at the hostel, including water shortages, sanitation failures, electricity challenges and overcrowding.
Community leader, Mr Mike Sibisi, said residents have endured months of water disruptions and blocked sewage systems.
“People are forced to carry water in buckets just to flush toilets manually. It is ineffective and creates serious health risks, especially for children,” Mr Sibisi said.
Residents further claim that promises to upgrade the hostel have not materialised despite previous engagements with government officials. Some allege that more than 500 people are living in overcrowded conditions and that water services were disconnected last year, worsening sanitation challenges.
However, the City of Tshwane has disputed several of these claims.
In a written response to media enquiries, City spokesperson Mr Lindela Mashigo said the property is owned by the Gauteng Provincial Government and was previously part of the former Transvaal College of Education. After the college closed, the buildings were left vacant and later illegally occupied, according to the City.
“The City has not received any complaints from the current illegal occupants. Complaints received in 2015 were resolved after the occupants were relocated to Soshanguve Extensions 6, 7 and 19,” Mr Mashigo said.
The City added that it continues to provide rudimentary services despite the property falling under provincial ownership. Mr Mashigo said the municipality is not aware of any approved budgets or infrastructure upgrade plans for the site, noting that responsibility for housing development and refurbishment lies with the Gauteng Provincial Department of Human Settlements.
Regarding post-fire assistance, the City confirmed that the Department of Social Development and Emergency Services responded and provided relief support to affected residents.
Ward 34 councillor, Ms Sesi Sithole, said disaster relief, including mattresses, was distributed to families impacted by the fire. She added that water tankers are supplying residents on scheduled days.
Residents, however, argue that the assistance provided is insufficient. Some families reportedly lost personal belongings and important documents in the blaze and are calling for temporary accommodation and additional support.
The City said it has not received a formal memorandum from residents regarding the protests.
As investigations continue, broader questions remain about the safety of the buildings, the future of the hostel and which sphere of government will take responsibility for addressing residents’ concerns.
A follow-up meeting between residents and government officials is expected later this month.
