More than 100 people died in shack fires in Cape Towns crowded informal settlements in 2005, according to the communications division of the city council. Over 8,000 shacks are thought to have been destroyed in nearly 2,000 separate incidents across the city, leaving an estimated 28,800 people destitute. The same source put the total cost of providing relief to the victims, including rebuilding starter kits, blankets and food, at over 13 million rand. The City of Cape Town has launched a campaign to raise awareness among residents and visitors about the dangers of fires; safety pamphlets have been distributed in slum areas and fire crews have visited the settlements to familiarise themselves with the areas and to educate inhabitants on safety.

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Wanted in Africa
Wanted in Africa
Wanted in Africa, part of the Wanted Worldwide network, is a website in English for expatriates in Africa established in 2006. We cover Europe's news stories that may be of interest to English speaking residents along with tourists as well. Our publication also offers classifieds, photos, information on events, museums, churches, galleries, exhibits, fashion, food, and local travel.
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