Attachments
Date of event
24-03-2026
What happened, where and when?
On March 24th , 2026, a large fire devastated the village of TUCUNDE, CARAVELA Sector, Bolama /Bijagós Region, Caravela Island is the northernmost island of the Bijagós Archipelago, located in the administrative region of Bolama, in Guinea-Bissau. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 37 km from the mainland coast, it is part of the Caravela Sector, with 128 km² and a landscape of dense forests, mangroves and beaches, with an airport (GGCV). It caused the total destruction of twenty-three (23) houses, belonging to sixty seven (67) households, with around 469 people directly affected.
As a result of this fire, there were different types and levels losses of homes and settlements, means of subsistence, income or goods. Warehouses that were completely destroyed, contained harvested produce and seeds for the next growing season. The owners of these stores live in the community and face livelihood challenges.
The affected communities practice agriculture as a livelihood. They also practice polygamy, where men who are the heads of families, some have more than two wives. Each wife is responsible for taking care of her own children.
Affected families are currently homeless, with vulnerable groups exposed to deteriorated living conditions, at risk of hunger and other health conditions, highlighting the need for immediate support.