Fire in Bukavu Kills 24 Schoolchildren, Destroys Homes

On Thursday, a devastating fire in the Kadutu district of Bukavu, DR Congo, resulted in the deaths of 24 schoolchildren, comprising 19 girls and five boys. Several injured individuals are reported to be in critical condition, raising concerns that the death toll may rise.

Witnesses indicated that the fire spread quickly to nearby homes, many constructed primarily of wood, leading to the destruction of two schools and over 300 houses. Ambulances were dispatched to evacuate the injured, while local residents participated in rescue efforts to save relatives and belongings.

By the end of the day, authorities managed to bring the fire under control, although thick smoke continued to rise from the charred area. An investigation has been initiated to ascertain the cause of the fire.

The incident has left hundreds of families homeless and exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Bukavu, which is under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel movement. Local authorities have called for assistance for bereaved families and those who lost their homes.