About 26 children were killed and 25 others injured during a fire outbreak in Bukavu, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, on Thursday
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) stated this in a statement on Saturday, noting that the incident occurred on Thursday while the children were in class at about 9 a.m
”We extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved families and express our solidarity with the children, families, and communities affected by this tragedy.
“The fire affected homes and two primary schools in Furaha and Ujamaa, with a tragic human toll, while the injured children are currently receiving medical care,” UNICEF said.
It added that the impact of the fire on children was long-lasting, stressing that beyond the destruction of homes and schools, children were facing psychological distress in an already volatile environment marked by armed conflict and insecurity.
“UNICEF is working with partners to support affected children, families and communities providing mental health and psychosocial support to children, including students, and affected community members. and supporting access to education so affected students can continue the school year.”
UNICEF added that eleven children, separated from their parents, were reunited with their families.
