News & Events

Up in smoke. Photo: Pedro Clarke.

The building of the new Lesotho Child Counselling Unit has suffered a major set back. The thatching of one of the blocks caught fire during building work; devastating the nearly completed building.

This is a real blow as the work was so close to completion, and the move of the children from Lydia's house into their new home will not be in time for Christmas as planned.

The fire services stop the spread of the fire. Photo: Pedro Clarke .

Thanks to a quick response from the local fire brigade, the fire did not destroy any other parts of the building, and fortunately no one was hurt. The infrastructure is still in place though, so the building work can now start again.

A full assessment of the damage was carried out by Architects 4 Aid, investigating the cause of the fire, damage created, and making a plan to ensure that it will not happen again.

Smoke looms over the building. Photo: Pedro Clarke.

Sentebale will be working closely with Architects 4 Aid and all at the LCCU to make sure that the building is re-organised and set into motion as quickly as possible.

Extra funds are needed as better fireproofing, lightening conductors and fire extinguishers are going to be installed. Sentebale are hoping to help raise money for these to ensure maximum safety for all the children and staff.