The Botha Sigcawu government building in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, is currently on fire, with reports indicating that the 11-storey structure has been engulfed in flames.
The building houses at least nine provincial departments and critical land records. Witnesses have described the scene as dramatic, with the fire reportedly causing significant damage to the historic structure. Emergency services are on the scene attempting to bring the blaze under control.
[BREAKING NEWS] Eleven-storey Botha Sigcau government building, Mthatha, Eastern Cape, on fire. The building houses at least nine provincial departments and critical land records.
Tune into #Newzroom405 for more developments on this story. pic.twitter.com/QQBmz5mj1Q
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) March 24, 2026
Previous Incident
This is not the first fire scare for the building. In July 2014, the Botha Sigcawu building was evacuated after a strong smell of smoke led officials to believe a fire had broken out. Firefighters were dispatched to the Leeds Street building at that time, but it was determined that the smoke was caused by electrical wires, and no actual fire was found .
Ongoing Situation
Details regarding the cause of the current fire or whether the building has been evacuated are still emerging. The Botha Sigcawu building is a significant government facility in the region, and the fire is likely to have serious implications for the provincial departments housed there.