Urban Safety and Crisis Management

A nighttime fire in the Funu neighborhood of Bukavu resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals from two families, highlighting ongoing safety and humanitarian challenges in the area.

Incident Overview

The fire began around midnight, quickly spreading through multiple dwellings. The neighborhood is characterized by unregulated construction and frequent electrical hazards, which contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze.

Community Response

Following the incident, Red Cross volunteers and local youth worked to recover the remains of the victims from the debris of the collapsed homes.

Survivor Accounts

Survivor Patrick Gedeon described escaping the fire, only to return and find 14 neighbors deceased. Another resident, Olivier Bangalwa, recounted the moment residents became trapped as the staircase was engulfed in flames, preventing escape from the upper floors. The majority of the victims were women and children.

Ongoing Urban Safety Challenges

This event underscores the persistent urban safety issues in Bukavu, where rapid and unregulated construction, along with makeshift electrical installations, pose constant fire risks.

Impact of Ongoing Conflict

Since February 2025, Bukavu has been under the control of the AFC-M23 rebel group, further complicating the city’s security situation. The rebels have promised to ensure dignified burials for the victims, while residents continue to call for government intervention.