Two schools in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo have been destroyed by fire which has killed at least 24 schoolchildren.
The children were involved in a stampede while attempting to flee the scene of the fire which broke out in the Kadutu commune in Bukavu still under the control of M23 rebels.
Bukavu is the capital of South Kivu province, which has been under the control of M23 rebels since February last year.
According to rebel officials in the area, an unspecified number of adults were also fatal victims of the fire, the cause of which remains unknown.
At least 300 buildings were gutted as footage emerged of the desolate scene, with children seen lying motionless.
According to responders at the scene, the death toll could rise as survivors were hospitalised.
The Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship in Kinshasa has issued a statement expressing ”deep sorrow” over the tragedy.
“With several lives lost and many injured, the toll remains provisional. The minister offered condolences, affirmed solidarity with families, and ordered assessments of affected schools to ensure learning continuity” said the statement.
The Bukavu school fire followed a similar incident at a wedding party in the Congolese capital in which several people were killed.
These fatal incidents have prompted safety concerns from the DRC authorities especially in crowded public events.
WN/as/APA