RUNDU – A late-night fire has caused extensive damage to the kitchen at Dr Romanus Kampungu Senior Secondary School in Rundu. 

The blaze reportedly broke out around 23h00 on Monday night, quickly spreading through the facility. 

The fire mainly affected the kitchen and spared the dining hall and offices. 

The hostel accommodates about 560 learners who depend on the affected kitchen. 

In an interview with New Era, school principal Thomas Zokka confirmed the incident, noting the significant setback this poses for the school’s daily operations. 

“I was informed last night by our hostel superintendent that our kitchen was on fire. I had to quickly rush to come and observe the situation, and by the time I got here, they had extinguished the fire, and one of our big stoves and electrical pots, including the electrical box, did not have power, but power was later restored by works officials,” Zokka said on Tuesday. 

“The challenge we have now is that our learners might not have lunch today, as we are still looking at alternatives on where to go and prepare their meals. The cause of the fire incident is still unknown as it stands,” he noted. 

Asser Kandere, the deputy director of education in Kavango East, said the cause of the fire remains undetermined as investigations continue. 

“The catering is given a go-ahead to provide a gas stove that will enable food to be prepared at the facility, from dinner onwards,” he said. 

Local authorities are expected to release a full report once the investigation into the Dr Romanus Kampung fire is concluded.