Tragedy Strikes Bangui: Stampede Claims Lives of 29 Students During Exams

A devastating incident unfolded at the Barthelemy Boganda High School in Bangui, Central African Republic, on Wednesday afternoon, June 25, 2025, when an explosion near an examination hall triggered widespread panic among thousands of students. The ensuing stampede tragically claimed the lives of 29 pupils and left over 260 injured, casting a dark shadow over what should have been a pivotal moment in their academic lives.

The explosion, reportedly caused by a power transformer being restored to service, occurred while approximately 5,300 students were engaged in their baccalaureate exams. The sudden and unexpected blast created a terrifying scene, leading to a desperate rush for safety that turned fatal for many. Authorities in Bangui confirmed the fatalities and the significant number of injuries, with reports indicating that some students suffered severe harm in the crush.

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic and heartbreaking environment as the sheer volume of students trying to escape overwhelmed the school’s capacity, resulting in the deadly stampede. Emergency services and concerned citizens quickly mobilized to assist the victims, transporting the injured to local hospitals. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by large gatherings in such circumstances.

This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety protocols and emergency preparedness in public spaces, especially where large numbers of young people are gathered. The nation mourns the loss of its promising youth, whose lives were cut short in a moment of unforeseen terror.