Fire Destroys 487 Mattresses at Pemba Secondary School

A fire has swept through a girls’ dormitory at Pemba Secondary School in Southern Province, destroying 487 mattresses and raising concerns ahead of the reopening of schools.

The incident occurred on Thursday, September 3, 2026, just days before schools are expected to reopen on Monday, September 7.

According to reports, the fire is believed to have started during welding works being carried out as workers assembled beds in the dormitory. The flames reportedly spread through the facility, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of mattresses.

No deaths or injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.

The destruction of the mattresses has, however, raised concerns over accommodation for pupils when the school reopens, particularly those who were expected to use the affected dormitory.

Authorities are expected to assess the extent of the damage and determine measures to ensure that affected pupils have adequate accommodation and bedding when classes resume.

Police had not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident at the time of reporting.

The cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the welding works are expected to be established through further investigations.