Pope Francis prays for victims of fire in South Africa

By Francesca Merlo

Addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square for his weekly General Audience, Pope Francis expressed his condolences to all those affected by a fire that broke out in Johannesburg, South Africa.

"With deep sorrow I learned of the fire that broke out in a five-story building in the city center of Johannesburg, South Africa, in which more than seventy people died, including several children", said the Pope.

He invited all those following, in presence and online, to join him in praying for the victims.

"To the family members I express my condolences, and I send a special Blessing for them and for those who are working to provide assistance and support."

The tragedy

At least 73 people died and 43 were injured in the fire in a five-storey building in the city's financial district on 31 August.

The fire broke out around 1:30 a.m. The city authorities did not clarify what the possible causes might have been.

According to eyewitnesses, the fire started when the power was out. One witness recounted that the fire started during a power outage, and that there was a loud gunshot-like noise followed by a loud explosion.

Some of the survivors described how they jumped out of windows, but only after tossing their children to others below.

The run-down compound was among numerous properties seized by criminals and property syndicates, who subsequently unlawfully lease the premises to individuals unable to afford alternative accommodations. Often lacking dependable facilities or proper sanitation, these places present dire living conditions.

There are 57 complexes that have been hijacked in the inner city, where up to 2,000 people can live in a single complex.

In the aftermath of the latest deadly blaze, people wonder how so many are allowed to.

Housing in South Africa

The Prevention of Illegal Eviction Act (PIE Act) in South Africa serves as an initial reference point, declaring that an individual cannot be displaced from their residence without a court-issued order.

Furthermore, if someone has established residence in a building and can demonstrate their lack of alternative housing options, they enjoy protection against eviction.

These provisions significantly complicate the process of clearing hijacked buildings.

The 80 Albert Street complex was owned by the City of Johannesburg, which means the city would have been responsible for finding alternative shelter for those evicted.