In brief
A sudden fire at two schools in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, caused a deadly stampede that killed at least 24 children and several adults. The blaze destroyed about 300 houses and left the cause unknown. Survivors have been taken to hospitals and authorities say the death toll may rise. M23 rebels control the city, and the government has pledged to enforce stricter safety checks after the tragedy.
A sudden blaze broke out at two schools in the city of Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on Thursday. The fire forced students and teachers into a panicked rush that left at least 24 children dead and many adults injured.
The flames were still smouldering into the afternoon, and footage shows smoke rising from twisted metal and rubble. Roughly 300 houses in the densely populated Kadutu commune were destroyed, but the cause of the fire remains unclear.
The Situation
- Initial death toll from the stampede: 24 schoolchildren, plus several adults.
- Hospitals have taken many survivors for treatment.
- Rebel‑appointed authorities released a provisional death toll, but experts fear the numbers could rise.
Bukavu has been under the control of M23 rebels since February of last year. The government in Kinshasa has expressed deep sorrow, but did not release exact casualty figures.
This tragedy follows a similar incident in Kinshasa last weekend, where a wedding hall fire caused a deadly stampede. In response, the government has pledged stronger safety inspections across public venues.
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