Bulawayo Fire Brigade flags likehood of another fire at Espamprikeni

Raymond Jaravaza, [email protected]

THE presence of combustible materials, which are highly flammable and the absence of nearby water points to supply the Bulawayo Fire Brigade while fighting a fire, have been flagged as major reasons why Mpopoma Outspan furniture manufacturing complex in Bulawayo is at risk of being razed down by another fire.

The complex, popularly known as Espamprikeni, was gutted by fire in January 2023, leaving more than 200 traders counting their losses and struggling to rebuild their businesses and livelihoods.

The blaze, which allegedly started from a spark within the complex, spread rapidly through highly flammable materials such as timber, upholstery and leather used in the manufacture of beds, sofas and wardrobes.

Established in the early 1990s, the complex had grown into a major furniture manufacturing hub, housing more than 200 carpenters and supporting over 400 jobs.

Bulawayo Fire Brigade chief fire officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo told Zimpapers that the fire emergency department carried out a comprehensive analysis at the site, which flagged a number of reasons why another fire could potentially damage the furniture manufacturing complex.

“We carried out a site visit and observed that the site contained wardrobes and other combustible materials, which are highly flammable. The accumulation of combustible materials presents a particular concern because wardrobes and associated materials can provide a substantial fuel load,” he said.

Mr Moyo said other combustible items allow a fire to spread rapidly from one section to another.

He also said overcrowding at the site may obstruct access and firefighting operations.

“Combustible materials stored close to electrical installations or other ignition sources may increase the likelihood of fire.

“A fire involving a large quantity of combustible materials could produce intense heat and smoke, creating a serious risk to occupants, neighbouring properties and responding firefighters,” said Mr Moyo.

He said the fire brigade advised the occupants of Espamprikeni that combustible materials constitute a significant fire hazard if appropriate control measures are not implemented.

“The combination of a high combustible fuel load and a possible ignition source could result in a serious fire if the hazards are not addressed. The occupants of the site have been advised to take corrective measures such as the reduction of accumulation of combustible materials and to store their wares in an orderly manner,” said Mr Moyo.

He said they should also keep combustible materials away from electrical installations, sources of heat, naked flames and other potential ignition sources.

The fire brigade noted that maintaining good housekeeping throughout the premises and removing unnecessary combustible waste reduces the risk of a fire.

“The area does not have a water point since it’s an illegal site and it must be noted that failure to address the identified hazards could increase the potential for a fire to develop rapidly and cause significant damage to property, disruption of operations and possible loss of life,” added Mr Moyo.