Kinshasa authorities launch fire safety inspections for public venues

The Kinshasa provincial government has launched a large-scale inspection operation targeting party halls and other public venues to prevent deadly fires. Following several recent incidents that caused deaths and significant property damage, Vice-Governor Eddy Iyeli Molangi has summoned venue owners to the City Hall between September 10 and 15, 2026, to present operating permits, technical files, and safety documentation.

Field inspections began on September 7, focusing on electrical installations, emergency exits, capacity limits, and fire prevention equipment. The goal is to ensure all establishments comply with current safety standards to avoid future tragedies.

In a parallel legislative move, provincial deputy Jared Phanzu has submitted a proposal to the Kinshasa Provincial Assembly to establish a formal provincial framework for fire prevention and security. The proposed edict aims to strengthen alert systems, evacuation procedures, and first-response capabilities, while also introducing sanctions to hold venue managers accountable for safety compliance.