In the heart of the Kalehe territory, more precisely in Caminunu Kalonge, a tragic fire recently brought mourning to the local community by causing the death of a small child of only 2 years old. The voracious flames engulfed several kiosks and more than six homes, leaving behind a spectacle of desolation and considerable material losses.
This tragedy, which occurred on June 20, 2024, particularly marked the minds of the inhabitants of Kalonge, helpless witnesses to the rapid spread of the fire. According to testimonies collected on site, the fire started at the kiosks before spreading to neighboring shops and houses, transforming part of the local heritage into ashes.
The poignant testimonies of the residents of the region speak of twins, unfortunately trapped in the flames. While one of them was saved in extremis thanks to the heroic intervention of some young people from the neighborhood, the youngest unfortunately did not survive the fire, leaving behind a family devastated by the tragic loss of their child.
Local authorities, including the chief of the Bigizi sub-village, confirmed the extent of the damage caused by the disaster, highlighting the large number of shops and homes affected by the devastating flames. At the same time, an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances of the fire and shed light on any negligence or causes of this tragic event.
In this period of mourning and contemplation, solidarity is being organized within the community of Kalonge to help families affected by this disaster. The child survivor, currently being cared for in a local care center, is a testament to the strength and resilience of these communities in the face of adversity.
This fire, beyond causing significant material damage, reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of solidarity and mutual aid in the event of a disaster. In these times of mourning, it is essential to support each other and show compassion towards those affected by this tragedy.