By HornTimes Africa Desk
BUKAVU (HT): At least 24 children have died in a stampede after a fire spread through two schools in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The children were reportedly attempting to escape when the stampede occurred in the densely populated Kadutu commune. Other reports placed the number of schoolchildren killed at 27.
Adults were also reported among the dead, while several people were injured. Authorities warned that the total number of casualties could rise.
The tragedy has renewed calls for stronger fire-prevention systems, emergency exits and safety procedures in schools and other crowded public buildings.
