Victims of a deadly fire and stampede at a school in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, have been laid to rest.

Family members, residents and members of the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group gathered at Ruzizi Cemetery to pay their final respects. Red Cross workers also attended the burial ceremony.

UNICEF says at least 26 children were killed in the fire and the stampede that followed on September 10.

Residents have called on authorities to improve fire safety and urban planning in Bukavu, saying narrow streets make it difficult for emergency vehicles to reach burning buildings.

Resident David Rukabo urged people to build responsibly and leave enough space for fire engines to pass.