Damaged church school in Bukavu(Photo: (c)Bukavu Diocese)
The crisis committee of the Diocese of Bukavu told CMS on Wednesday that multiple subsequent tremors compounded the initial damage.
About 170 homes were completely destroyed, they reported.
Hospitals, schools, market, shops and churches were also either destroyed or damaged.
Many buildings are in a dangerous condition. Three churches were seriously damaged and the
tower of St Peter's cathedral collapsed.
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Two church schools sustained damage: More than half the classrooms of Elima Insitute have
been completely destroyed and its 629 students must stay at home. The Dirokpa Institute,
which has 478 students, has seriously damaged roof and walls.
Health centres at Chirunga, Kabare, Kabanda and Muhungu are struggling to treat the wounded
under unsound roofs and walls.
People whose homes have been damaged are being advised to sleep elsewhere for two weeks. For
most this means sleeping outside - they fear their weakened houses may collapse if further
tremors occur.
Diocesan Development Officer Mushamuka Hamisi Fidele said, "Please, brothers and sisters in
Christ, may you pray for the community of Bukavu and its surroundings that the almighty God
may not only provide peace, protection, cure, and counselling but also but also make
available all the materials necessary to rehabilitate the destroyed buildings."