Congo Wedding Fire: 22 Killed, Several Injured After Blaze Tears Through Party in Kinshasa

September 6, 2026

Kinshasa: At least 22 people were killed and several others injured after a fire broke out during a wedding party in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), officials said. The deadly blaze erupted late Friday night and continued into the early hours of Saturday at a building in the Lingwala district of northern Kinshasa.

Lingwala district Mayor Norbert Mushinga said the death toll was provisional and could rise further. The exact number of injured people has not been disclosed, and authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire.

Narrow hallways hampered escape

The fire spread through the building as people attending the wedding tried to escape. The building’s narrow hallways became congested, making it difficult for guests to get out quickly.

As the blaze unfolded, people at the scene attempted to rescue those trapped inside. Several victims, including both survivors and those who had died, were taken out and placed along the roadside as people tried to help the injured.

The incident turned what was supposed to be a wedding celebration into a deadly tragedy.

Congo officials visit fire site

Congo’s Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Jacquemin Shabani visited the site on Saturday morning and described the incident as a tragedy.

Authorities are yet to establish what caused the blaze. The death toll and number of injured could also change as officials continue assessing the aftermath.

Deadly fires a recurring concern in Kinshasa

The latest incident has also renewed concerns over fire safety in densely populated parts of Kinshasa. Reports have pointed to inadequate fire services and other safety infrastructure in some rapidly developing areas of the capital.

Several fires have reportedly occurred in Kinshasa this year, particularly during the dry season.

The authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the wedding-party fire and determine its exact cause.