A Surrey Estate ouma has lost her only source of income after a devastating fire destroyed her stall at Gatesville on Sunday night.
Faiza Moses, 63, who has been selling fruit, vegetables, Tupperware and crockery along Klipfontein Road for more than 40 years, says she lost stock valued at R300 000.
She says she got a skrik when she received a call shortly after 11pm from someone telling her the stall situated outside Elite Food Town Supermarket was on fire and watched helplessly as the flames engulfed her livelihood.
“When we got here, the flames were everywhere. It was too late to stop it. Everything is gone,” she says.
HARTSEER: Faiza Moses lost R300 000 worth of stock.
Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, says: “The fire was extinguished just after midnight. One adult male sustained superficial burn wounds to his face and was initially treated, but later on refused transportation to a hospital and left the scene.
“The cause of the fire is unknown.”
On Monday, a large group of traders assisted Faiza in clearing the area. She says the injured man was homeless and has since left the area.
“I was just nine years old when I became a broker,” she says sadly. My father, Ishmaeel, ran the Poor Man’s Friend stall in Athlone and he taught me everything.”
Over the years, she assisted many poor people and allowed mense to buy on credit.
A devastating fire destroyed Faiza'a stalltjie. Video supplied
Besides her stock, her stand and other equipment were also destroyed in the blaze.
“I was preparing for Black Friday and I had so many specials.
“This is the only source of income for my family. I am hartseer, but Allah knows best,” she says.
Anyone who would like to help can call the ouma on 078 300 2756.