Three Children Killed in Bushfire in Kwilu’s Bagata Territory

Bagata, Kwilu, July 13, 2026 - Three children have died after becoming trapped in a bushfire in Luie village, Bagata Territory, in Kwilu Province, prompting local authorities to ban bush burning during the dry season. According to local officials, four children had gone into a nearby forest to collect ginger when they were caught in a fire allegedly started by unidentified adults who fled the area after igniting the vegetation. Two of the children died at the scene, while a third later succumbed to severe burns at Ndanu Hospital. A fourth child survived and alerted the village to the incident. Local authorities said the two children who died at the scene were from the same family. They reportedly attempted to escape the flames by climbing a small tree, but were unable to avoid the rapidly spreading fire. The victims were between 11 and 13 years old. Following the tragedy, Manzasay Sector Chief Nuclette Tankuyi announced an immediate ban on bush burning during the dry season, warning that the practice poses a serious threat to nearby communities. The incident has renewed concerns about the dangers of uncontrolled bushfires in rural areas, where seasonal burning is often used to clear land for agricultural activities. During the dry season, such fires can spread rapidly, endangering lives, homes, and farmland. The latest tragedy follows similar incidents in Kwilu Province. In July 2024, a bushfire destroyed 25 houses in Nkara village in Bulungu Territory, highlighting the recurring risks associated with uncontrolled vegetation burning during the dry season.