A devastating fire broke out in Bukavu city in eastern Congo on Thursday, leaving the region in shock. The blaze reportedly started in a residential house and quickly spread to two nearby schools. A total of 24 students, including 19 girls and five boys, lost their lives in the incident.
The fire spread rapidly because the area was densely populated and many nearby houses were made of wood. The flames eventually reached the Furaha Secondary School and Uzama Primary School campuses. Students attending classes were caught off guard as thick smoke filled the premises, making it difficult for them to escape.
According to Lawrence Kanyuka, a representative of the M23 rebels, 19 female students and five boys were killed in the tragedy. Several students were reportedly trapped while trying to escape amid the heavy smoke and panic. The incident has caused widespread grief across Bukavu.
