**Fire Claims Lives of 26 Schoolchildren in Bukavu, DR Congo**
A tragic fire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) city of Bukavu has resulted in the deaths of at least 26 students, as reported by local authorities. The incident occurred on Thursday morning in the densely populated Cimpunda neighborhood, where the blaze began in a residential house before spreading rapidly to two nearby schools, Furaha and Ujamaa.
According to officials, the fire quickly engulfed the area, leading to a chaotic scene as students attempted to flee. Many reportedly suffocated after becoming trapped inside the schools, while others were injured in a stampede as they sought to escape the flames. The South Kivu provincial authorities confirmed that the fatalities included 19 girls and seven boys, with concerns that the death toll could rise as the situation develops.
The fire destroyed over 300 homes, exacerbated by the closely packed wooden structures typical of the neighborhood. Moise Lubala, the Cimpunda administrator, highlighted that the narrow exits from the schools contributed to the crush of students trying to escape the flames.
The Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), a rebel coalition that currently controls Bukavu, initially reported 24 deaths and 29 injuries, with 21 patients requiring intensive care. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire, as local officials and the community seek answers.
In response to the tragedy, DR Congo government spokesman Patrick Muyaya expressed deep concern, stating that Kinshasa is closely monitoring the incident. He extended solidarity to the affected students, teachers, parents, and families, emphasizing the need for support in the wake of such a devastating event.
The Congolese Education Ministry also addressed the incident, reaffirming that students and teachers in rebel-held areas remain part of the national education system. The ministry has ordered an assessment of the damage and is working on measures to support the victims and ensure that classes can continue. This fire marks the latest in a series of incidents that have impacted schools in Bukavu, although the specific cause of the fire remains unknown.
This disaster comes shortly after a fire at a wedding party in Kinshasa claimed at least 22 lives, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the region. Additionally, reports indicate that over 700 homes were lost to separate fires in Bukavu during the week ending September 6.
The AFC/M23 has maintained control over Bukavu since February 2025, following military advances that forced Congolese and allied Burundian troops to withdraw. The coalition's control has led to the establishment of parallel administrations in eastern DR Congo, where various armed groups compete for control over the region's rich mineral resources. The Congolese government and several Western nations have accused Rwanda of supporting these rebels, a claim that Kigali has denied.
As the community mourns the loss of young lives, calls for increased safety measures and support for victims are expected to grow in the aftermath of this tragic incident.