Ms Rodah Mashamba (50) of Musina Extension 6 (Harper Mine) was devastated when her house caught fire on Friday last week. She is a domestic worker and she supports her family of five on her small salary.

The fire is alleged to have been caused by a faulty electricity cable. Ms Mashamba lost everything, including food, clothes and identity documents.

She recalls with grief when she got the news for the first time. “I was at work when I received a call at about 13:00. Relatives told me that my house was on fire, and I rushed home. Members of the local fire brigade came and did their best to extinguish the fire. Fortunately no life was lost, but we suffered serious financial loss. I cannot understand why this happened to me. I have to accept it, because I cannot reverse it.”

With the help of family members and the local ward councillor, Mr James Kaunda, she managed to replace the roof and doors of her house. She thanked all the people who offered help and requests kind-hearted community members to assist her in restoring her electricity connection, providing food and household equipment, such as furniture and kitchen utensils.

Cllr Kaunda, who spent the whole day working to repair the house, says he has been touched by what happened to one of his people. “I had to cancel every important meeting to make sure that I spent time assisting this family. I would also like to thank all the relatives and community members who came on board. I urge those who can donate anything to the family to do so in order for them to enjoy life again like all of us.”

Those who would like to assist the family can call Cllr Kaunda at 076 366 1782 or 082 626 3992.