Catholic Archdiocese of Bukavu in DR Congo Mourns 27 Children Killed in Fire Disaster

The Catholic Archdiocese of Bukavu is mourning 27 children who died in a fire on September 10 in the Cimpunda neighborhood of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo. The fire destroyed two schools and hundreds of homes in the Kadutu municipality. Local reports state the children, consisting of 19 girls and eight boys, died while traveling to school.

Students from Catholic schools affiliated with Our Lady of Mercy Parish held a memorial Mass on Thursday, September 17, to honor the victims. Father Patrice Mukata Bayongwa, the diocesan and provincial coordinator for the archdiocese's Catholic schools, presided over the service. During the Mass, he encouraged the community to maintain faith and hope despite the tragedy.

Father Mukata Bayongwa asked the faithful to pray for the city of Bukavu, noting that the area has faced recurring fires. He urged residents to seek God's protection from similar disasters. During the memorial, students and teachers lit candles before the altar and expressed solidarity with the affected families.