UNICEF said it is deeply saddened and alarmed by a fire in Bukavu, South Kivu, that broke out on 10 September and killed at least 26 children, injuring 25 others. The statement was attributed to John Agbor, UNICEF Representative in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and published on 11 September 2026.

The fire affected homes and two primary schools in Furaha and Ujamaa, according to the agency. Injured children were receiving medical care. UNICEF said the impact on children is long-lasting: beyond the destruction of homes and schools, children face psychological distress in an environment already marked by armed conflict and insecurity.

UNICEF said it is working with partners to provide mental health and psychosocial support to affected children, including students, and to community members, and to help affected students continue the school year. It added that eleven children who had been separated from their parents were reunited with their families that day.