The shack that burnt. photo: KZN DOT

Five children lost their lives in a devastating informal settlement fire in Shaka’s Head, Stanger, in northern KwaZulu-Natal, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The blaze broke out shortly after 5am.

According to KwaDukuza Local Municipality’s Disaster Management team, firefighters arrived on the scene to find the informal structure already engulfed in flames.

The children have been identified as Asamkele Somtsewu (19), Sonwabise Noyila (14), Amila Menemene (3), and one-year-old twins Sokhula and Solulele Somtsewu.

Their mother, Ntombovuyo Menemene, and a surviving two-year-old child, Yana Menemene, were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.

The father, Sivuyile Noyila, sustained minor injuries.

The South African Police Service has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

He also commended the mother for her bravery in saving the life of her surviving child.

Duma said he is in contact with KwaDukuza Local Municipality Mayor Sduduzo Gumede following the incident and that his department has mobilised support to assist the affected family during this difficult time.