Goma, January 29, 2026 – Authorities in North Kivu have rushed emergency aid to dozens of families left homeless after a devastating fire swept through the Mapendo district of Birere, in Goma, late on Wednesday night, January 27. The blaze, which broke out around 9 p.m. on Kisangani Avenue, destroyed or damaged the homes of at least 64 families, reducing much of their property to ashes.
On Thursday, January 28, Governor Bahati Musanga Erasto personally visited the site to assess the damage and meet with survivors. While the fire caused significant material losses, officials confirmed that no lives were lost.
Emergency Relief Delivered
In response, the provincial administration mobilized immediate humanitarian assistance. Families received construction materials and food supplies to help them rebuild and meet urgent needs. The aid package included:
- 1,280 metal sheets
- 640 bags of cement
- 64 bags of rice
Each affected household was allocated 20 sheets, 10 bags of cement, and one bag of rice. Later updates indicated that the support was extended to 66 families, with the distribution increased to 1,320 sheets, 660 bags of cement, 66 bags of rice, along with $100 in cash per family.
Governor Erasto emphasized that the assistance was meant to provide both immediate relief and a foundation for reconstruction: “We cannot remain indifferent in the face of such tragedy. Our duty is to stand with the victims and help them recover.”
Context: Vulnerability in Goma’s Urban Districts
The Mapendo fire underscores the vulnerability of Goma’s densely populated neighborhoods, where homes are often built with limited resources and fire safety measures are minimal. In recent years, the city has faced repeated incidents of fires, highlighting the urgent need for stronger prevention strategies, community awareness, and improved infrastructure.
Birere, one of Goma’s busiest districts, is particularly prone to such disasters due to its crowded housing and reliance on flammable building materials. Local leaders have pledged to strengthen fire prevention campaigns and explore long-term solutions to reduce risks in these communities.
Community Resilience
Despite the destruction, residents expressed gratitude for the swift intervention. Community members have begun organizing to support one another in rebuilding, while humanitarian organizations are expected to complement the government’s efforts in the coming days.
The incident serves as a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of Goma’s urban communities, where solidarity often emerges strongest in times of crisis.
