At least 24 schoolchildren died in a fire and stampede at two schools in the rebel-held city of Bukavu in eastern DR Congo. Rebel-appointed officials released the provisional toll on Thursday evening, with concerns that the number of deaths could increase.
What happened in the Bukavu school fire?
Fire broke out in two schools in the Kadutu commune of Bukavu. Children tried to flee, leading to a stampede that caused most of the confirmed deaths. Adults are also reported to have died. The cause remains unknown.
Some 300 houses were destroyed in the same incident. Survivors received treatment at nearby hospitals, where images showed injured children on floors.
Who controls Bukavu and why does it matter?
Bukavu is the capital of South Kivu province. M23 rebels captured the city in February 2025. Authorities appointed by the rebels issued the death toll of 24. The area is densely populated, raising fears of further casualties.
What has the Kinshasa government said?
The Ministry of National Education expressed sorrow and noted that the toll remains provisional. It offered condolences to families and ordered assessments of affected schools to maintain learning continuity. No casualty figures were specified in the statement.
How does this compare to recent incidents?
The fire follows a similar deadly incident in Kinshasa last weekend, where people died in a stampede at a wedding hall. The government has since ordered stricter safety checks at public gathering places across the country.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current death toll?
Rebel-appointed officials in Bukavu confirmed 24 deaths on Thursday evening. The figure is described as provisional and may rise.
Where did the fire occur?
The fire affected two schools in the Kadutu commune of Bukavu, a crowded hillside city in South Kivu province.
Who is providing aid?
Survivors have been taken to local hospitals. No international aid response has been detailed in available reports.
Is the cause known?
The cause of the fire has not been established. Smoke was still visible after the flames were extinguished.
Key takeaways
- At least 24 children died in the Bukavu school fire and stampede.
- Rebel-appointed authorities released the provisional toll.
- Around 300 houses were also destroyed.
- The Kinshasa government expressed condolences and ordered school assessments.
- The incident follows a deadly stampede in Kinshasa the previous weekend.