Mthatha landmark gutted: Fire ravages Botha Sigcau Building, probe under way

East London – A major fire has gutted the historic Botha Sigcau Building, in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, with investigations into the cause set to begin.

The blaze, which reportedly started on the fourth floor on Tuesday evening, caused extensive damage to the 11-storey government building, raising concerns about the possible loss of critical land records and historical documents.

DEVELOPING | An eyewitness who spoke to SABC News reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi says the fire at the historic Botha Sigcau Building in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, started on the eighth floor. He adds that the building was declared unsafe about three years ago. pic.twitter.com/2NvO7z0WV0

— SABC News (@SABCNews) March 24, 2026

Emergency services responded after being alerted by the public, while authorities confirmed that several key departments — including Health, Social Development and Transport — have been affected, disrupting service delivery.

“While the cause of the fire remains unknown and efforts are still ongoing, this moment reflects the strength found in collective action, alert residents, dedicated responders, and a shared commitment to safety,” The Citizen quoted the OR Tambo District Municipality as saying.

Fire engulfs Botha Sigcau building in Mthatha, EC. The building houses various government departments.

Evidence of Corruption gone

pic.twitter.com/WK9diiV7an

— MK Party Stan (@XFactor079) March 24, 2026

The building, a key administrative hub since 1976 and a prominent landmark in Mthatha, also holds historical significance, having been named after former Transkei president Botha Sigcau and linked to major political events.

Our fire fighters in UMthatha…Botha Sigcau building is gone…our country is a joke I am telling you😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/U1PHctuxg1

— Rev. Chris Mathebula (@mathebula_chris) March 24, 2026

🔴 JUST IN 🔴

The tallest building in Mthatha has being set on fire.

The Botha Sigcau building which has many provincial departments is burning down.

The arson could be driven by two mutually inclusive dirty tricks:

1. To create rental property crises in Mthatha and let… pic.twitter.com/4gAb6yQlNM

— Constitution First 🇿🇦 (@Constitution_94) March 24, 2026