Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, confirmed that the Kouga veld fires are now largely under control, following intensive efforts by firefighting teams on the ground. Monitoring operations will continue throughout the night to prevent any potential flare-ups.
Electricity supply has been restored to all affected areas. Residents who are still experiencing power outages are encouraged to contact the municipal call centre for assistance.
Bornman reported that two active fire zones remain under close observation:
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Between the N2 and R102, north of Boplaas: Firefighting crews are currently on site, with additional aerial support expected to assist in containing the blaze.
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Kabeljouws River towards Vlakteplaas: This is presently the largest active fire in the region. Two firefighting aircraft are operating in the area, supported by ground teams.
He said the Zuurbron fire has also been brought under control, with teams continuing to monitor the situation overnight.
After two demanding days of firefighting, Bornman acknowledged that emergency personnel are exhausted but remain in good spirits.
The fires, the origin of which remains unknown, spread across multiple fronts.
The first fire burnt in the Koukamma area, the second between St Francis Bay and Paradise Beach, and the third between Kabeljous and Jeffreys Bay.
Areas affected include Zwartenbosch, in the direction of Hankey near a poultry farm, Oyster Bay Road, Kromme River, Riverside, and Kabeljous River behind Nature’s Valley Private Game Reserve.
Bornman said behind Humansdorp, flames had pushed into hard-to-reach mountainous terrain, though no homes or infrastructure were under immediate threat in that area.
Between St Francis Bay and Paradise Beach, fires advanced close to residential properties along the Kromme River, forcing firefighters to position themselves between houses in an effort to halt the spread.
The fire closest to Paradise Beach was later contained.
Meanwhile, Gift of the Givers has deployed teams to the area, providing water, food and essential supplies to evacuated residents.
It was also supporting firefighters.
“Gift of the Givers teams are already on site in the Kouga district having been requested by the municipality to respond to the uncontrollable fires in the region,” spokesman Ali Sablay said.
“A collaborative effort between municipalities, disaster management, emergency services, fire fighters, the police, farmers, civil society organisations and the community is the only way to succeed,” he said.
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