Congo experiences destructive fires in Goma and Demba, causing extensive property loss

On 9 July 2026 a violent fire erupted at a gas‑bottle depot in Goma's Kyeshero district, spreading across several buildings owned by MODÉ. The blaze, fueled by multiple explosions, caused heavy material damage to dozens of gas bottles, stoves, freezers and other equipment. Although the fire threatened nearby facilities, no deaths or injuries were reported, thanks to a rapid response by local residents, MONUSCO fire trucks and Goma's civil protection teams.

The following day, 9 July 2026, a separate blaze consumed two houses in Mukolo, Demba territory (Kasaï‑Central). The fire originated in nearby bushland and quickly engulfed the homes, destroying all belongings of the two families. Again, there were no fatalities. Local civil‑society leaders highlighted the heightened fire risk during the dry season and called for urgent assistance to help the displaced families rebuild.

Both incidents underscored persistent fire‑safety challenges in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with authorities urging stronger preventive measures and support for affected residents.