At least 20 children die in fire at two schools in Bukavu, DR Congo

September 10, 2026 at 07:10 PM1 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

At least 20 students died in a fire at two primary schools in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. About 50 more were injured. The fire started in a nearby house and spread to the school buildings during classes.

Key Facts

At least 20 students died in the fire at two primary schools in Bukavu.
About 50 schoolchildren were injured.
The fire destroyed about 500 buildings, including a hospital.
The fire started in a house near the schools and spread during classes.

The Fire

The fire broke out in a house adjacent to the schools and spread to the educational buildings while classes were in session. Most of the students died in a stampede caused by panic. The news portal Actualite reported that the fire destroyed about 500 buildings, including a hospital.

Casualties and Damage

At least 20 students were killed and about 50 others were injured. The fire occurred in the commune of Kadutu in Bukavu. The cause of the fire is under investigation.