A family of seven has been left homeless after a fire destroyed their house in Talinding Farokono on Monday night, leaving them with nothing but the clothes they were wearing.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around 9 p.m. after a power outage plunged the area into darkness. Residents said the family had resorted to using candles for lighting when one of the candles allegedly sparked the fire.

Witnesses said the flames spread rapidly through the house within minutes, forcing the family to flee for safety as the building became engulfed in fire.

The victims, a husband, wife and their five children, reportedly lost all their belongings in the blaze, including household items, clothing, school uniforms and educational materials belonging to the children, who are currently attending school.

Residents also said an estimated D60,000 kept inside the house by the husband was burnt during the incident.

Neighbours described the scene as heartbreaking, saying desperate efforts to contain the fire were unsuccessful as the flames quickly consumed the entire building.

The affected family is now appealing for urgent assistance, including food, clothing, school materials and financial support to help them recover from the tragedy.

Community members in Talinding Farokono have also called on the public, charitable organisations and philanthropists to support the family as they attempt to rebuild their lives after the devastating fire.

By Adama Makasuba