A devastating fire swept through the working-class Funu neighborhood of Bukavu, killing 14 members of two families and leaving a community in mourning. The blaze, which erupted around midnight, rapidly consumed multiple dwellings in an area known for unregulated construction and frequent electrical hazards.

In the aftermath, Red Cross volunteers and local youth worked to recover victims’ remains from the charred debris of collapsed homes. Survivors recounted their harrowing escape, with Patrick Gedeon describing how he woke up to the sound of noises and spotted the fire, only to return and find his neighbors dead. Another resident, Olivier Bangalwa, described the terrifying moment when the staircase became engulfed in flames, trapping those on the upper floors.

The tragedy highlights Bukavu’s persistent urban safety challenges, where rapid, unregulated construction and makeshift electrical installations create constant fire risks. The city’s security situation, which has been under AFC-M23 rebel control since February 2025, further complicates the disaster. While the rebel group has committed to providing victims with dignified burials, residents are appealing for government intervention to address the underlying issues.

The fire has predominantly affected women and children, and the community is left to pick up the pieces. Resident Ngwabuluka Jean echoed the appeals for government intervention, stating that the community has been left with nothing. The incident underscores the need for urgent attention to urban safety and humanitarian crises in the region.

Bukavu’s humanitarian crisis is a longstanding issue, exacerbated by conflict and poor infrastructure. The city’s residents are in dire need of support and protection. As the community mourns the loss of life, it is essential to address the root causes of such tragedies and work towards preventing similar disasters in the future. The international community must take note of the situation in Bukavu and provide necessary aid to alleviate the suffering of its residents.