Renthia Kaimbi
A fire in the DRC informal settlement in Swakopmund has left at least 36 people affected and destroyed 12 informal structures, according to a report released by the municipality of Swakopmund.
The fire broke out on 3 April 2026 at around 19h51 in extension 14 near the airport side. It spread quickly through closely built shacks.
Emergency teams arrived to find the area covered in smoke and flames. Investigators described the fire as being at a “fully developed stage”.
Firefighters started suppression, search and rescue operations and managed to bring the fire under control.
Investigators said the fire is believed to have started after a domestic dispute.
A resident, identified as Razel Edien Gaoseb, said his intoxicated girlfriend tried to start a confrontation before he left the scene.
He said she later set his shack on fire, which then spread to nearby homes.
Authorities classified the cause of the fire as arson with a domestic origin.
No deaths were reported. However, residents lost their belongings, including food, clothes and documents. Many people were left without shelter.
The report said the close spacing of the shacks allowed the fire to spread quickly.
Chief of emergency and disaster management services Bainga Matengu said investigations aim to improve safety.
“The emphasis of a fire incident investigation is to determine the cause and recommend appropriate safety measures aimed at avoiding hazards,” the report states.
Authorities are calling for more fire safety awareness and education in communities.
