Bush Fire Destroys Homes in Demba, Civil Society Warns of Ongoing Danger

A wildfire has devastated two homes in Mukolo, located in the Demba territory of Kasaï-Central, on Friday, July 9, 2026. The blaze, which reportedly started in a neighboring bush, rapidly spread to the residences, leaving two families homeless and their possessions destroyed. River residents attempted to combat the flames, but all goods were lost.

Marcel Masanka, territorial coordinator for the New Civil Society of the Congo (NSCC) in Demba, confirmed that no lives were lost in the incident. However, the affected families are currently sleeping outdoors. Masanka appealed to authorities for urgent assistance to help the families rebuild their homes and regain dignity.

Masanka also issued a stark warning about the persistent threat of bush fires in the Demba region. He highlighted that the risk escalates significantly during the dry season when vegetation loses moisture and becomes highly flammable. "This is a practice that we condemn. It is a bad habit. You must take care not to burn the bush and warn our children during the day not to play with fire, because every time they play with fire at home, there is a risk of losing the house and some belongings," he stated.

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This is a practice that we condemn. It is a bad habit. You must take care not to burn the bush and warn our children during the day not to play with fire, because every time they play with fire at home, there is a risk of losing the house and some belongings.