By Swift Reporter
At least 22 people have been killed and several others injured after a devastating fire broke out during a wedding reception in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital, Kinshasa.
The fire erupted on Saturday at a building hosting a wedding celebration in Lingwala commune, sending guests into panic as they struggled to find and reach emergency exits.
Lingwala Mayor Norbert Mushinga confirmed the provisional death toll after inspecting the scene.
“After inspecting the place, I can confirm that the provisional death toll stands at 22,” Mushinga told reporters in Kinshasa.
According to the mayor, the situation became chaotic as people tried to escape the burning building.
“People faced difficulties reaching the emergency exit; everyone was in a state of panic,” he said.
Several people were injured in the incident and rushed to health facilities across Kinshasa for medical treatment.
The fire also destroyed property inside the building, adding to the losses suffered during what was supposed to be a celebration.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze. An electrical fault is among the suspected causes, although officials have not yet released a final determination.
The tragedy has also prompted the Congolese government to order an urgent review of safety measures at public venues.
Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani directed provincial governors across the country to immediately inspect buildings and establishments used to host public events.
The minister further ordered authorities to shut down venues found to be operating without adequate safety standards.
The Kinshasa tragedy has renewed concerns about emergency preparedness and the safety of crowded public venues, particularly buildings where large numbers of people gather for weddings, religious ceremonies and other events.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue and the number of casualties is assessed.
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