At least 24 schoolchildren died in a stampede while fleeing a fire that destroyed two schools in the Kadutu area of Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Rebel-appointed officials issued the provisional death toll on Thursday evening. Additional deaths among adults remain possible and the overall figure could increase. The cause of the blaze is not yet known.
What happened in the Bukavu school fire?
A fire broke out in two schools located in the densely populated Kadutu commune of Bukavu. Children attempting to escape triggered a stampede that caused most of the reported fatalities. Local authorities stated that the provisional death toll stands at 24 children. Some adults are also reported to have died. Survivors received treatment at nearby hospitals, where images showed injured children on floors.
Extent of destruction and response
Around 300 houses were destroyed by the fire. A witness told Reuters that firefighters had contained the blaze by afternoon, though smoke continued to rise from rubble and metal sheets. Rebel-appointed authorities in Bukavu released the updated casualty count. The central government in Kinshasa issued a statement expressing sorrow and ordering assessments of the affected schools to support learning continuity. No casualty numbers were included in the Kinshasa statement.
Context of Bukavu and recent events
Bukavu serves as the capital of South Kivu province and was taken by M23 rebels in February of the previous year. The fire follows a separate incident last weekend in Kinshasa, where a stampede at a wedding venue also caused deaths. National authorities have since directed stricter safety checks at public gathering places across the country.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current death toll?
Rebel-appointed officials in Bukavu reported 24 children killed. Additional adult deaths are possible and the total remains provisional.
Where did the fire occur?
The blaze affected two schools in the Kadutu commune of Bukavu, a crowded hillside district in eastern DR Congo.
Who controls Bukavu?
M23 rebels captured the city in February of the previous year and currently administer it through appointed authorities.
What has the central government said?
The Ministry of National Education expressed condolences, noted that the toll is provisional, and ordered school assessments to maintain education services.
Has a cause been identified?
No official cause has been confirmed. Investigations are ongoing.
Key takeaways
At least 24 children died in a stampede during a school fire in Bukavu on or before 10 September 2026.
Approximately 300 houses were also destroyed in the same incident.
Rebel-appointed authorities released the provisional death toll.
The central government in Kinshasa has ordered safety assessments at affected schools.
This event follows a separate fatal stampede in Kinshasa the previous weekend.
