At least 24 schoolchildren have been killed and 29 others injured after a fire swept through a densely populated neighbourhood in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC.
Local authorities said the incident occurred on Thursday in the Kadutu district as children were on their way to school.
The victims comprised 19 girls and five boys, while several of the injured were reported to be in critical condition, raising fears that the death toll could increase.
Witnesses said the fire spread rapidly to nearby homes, many of which were built mainly with wood, destroying two schools and more than 300 houses.
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Ambulances were deployed to evacuate the injured, while residents joined rescue efforts and tried to save relatives and belongings from the flames.
Authorities said the fire was brought under control by the end of the day, although thick smoke continued to rise from the charred remains of the neighbourhood.
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire.
The destruction has left hundreds of families homeless and worsened the humanitarian challenges facing residents of Bukavu, which has been grappling with insecurity, displacement and limited access to essential services.
Bukavu is currently under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel movement, which the United Nations and several Western governments have accused Rwanda of supporting. Rwanda has denied the allegation.
Local authorities have appealed for assistance for bereaved families and residents who lost their homes, as rescue operations and damage assessments continue.
Africanews
