Work to begin to establish extent of damage, cause of Botha Sigcau building fire

Forensic investigators are set to begin work to establish the extent of the damage and cause of a fire at that gutted the Botha Sigcau building in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.

The 13-storey building, which housed 11 government departments, caught alight on 27 March.

At the time, officials said the structure was undergoing refurbishment and infrastructure upgrades.

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Last Friday, the King Sabata Dalindyebo fire department cleared the building, saying it was safe to access.

Provincial government spokesperson Khuselva Rantjie said, “This marks a critical milestone, as it allows forensic investigators and later technical teams to commence detailed assessments to determine the full extent of the damage and cause of fire.”

Rantjie said assessments will be conducted to determine the long-term functionality of the building.

“The 13-storey building, which housed 1,330 officials from both provincial and national departments, sustained extensive damage affecting multiple floors. A comprehensive engineering assessment will also be undertaken to inform which steps regarding rehabilitation and long-term use of the facility.”

GOVT DEPARTMENTS RELOCATED

The Eastern Cape government said some of the 11 departments affected by the Botha Sigcau building fire in Mthatha have been relocated to alternative sites, with some employees working remotely.

The 13-storey building was undergoing renovations when it caught fire.

The 50-year-old building accommodated 1,330 officials from both provincial and national departments.

“The Eastern Cape provincial government acknowledges the impact and disruptions this unfortunate incident has caused to affected communities,” Rantjie said.

“Government has already implemented extensive measures to ensure continuity of services following the fire incident. Affected departments have been relocated to alternative sites, while some employees continue to work remotely where feasible.”