By OBAKENG MAJE
5 December 2024- The Manyane Game Lodge has been gutted by fire. Even though the details surrounding the cause of the fire are sketchy, it is alleged that the usage of gas torches might have sparked the fire.
According to the North West Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) spokesperson, Jerry Matebesi, on 3 December 2024, fire started in the afternoon as a subcontractor was busy waterproofing roof level concrete water channels on top of completed structures.
Matebesi said the sub-contractor was using a gas torch with open flame to stretch materials used.
“During this process, thatch material from the building they were working on caught fire. The thatch roofing had been completed on the affected structures.
“Wind fanned the fire and blew it across to the nearby building. All in all, three buildings were gutted – restaurant, conference hall and the entrance gate,” he said.
Matebesi further said Mafikeng Fire Services had responded to the incident and has been working hard to minimize damages. He added that all the flames were dowsed off by 4pm.
“In the end, the three structures have lost their roofs completely, while the brickworks are still standing. The chalets are not affected by fire and are still intact.
“Technical staff and Working on Fire teams are on site to ensure that the fire does not affect the reserve area,” said Matebesi.
The Guardian 