President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has described the house fire in the Ondalaye Yakalongo settlement in the Omusati Region as devastating, which claimed the lives of four people and left two families seriously injured.

The fire broke out at a family home in the early morning hours, claiming the lives of three boys, who died on the spot, and another succumbed to injuries in the hospital.

The deceased are six-year-old twins Juuso and Joseya Shapange, 17-year-old Steven Amushila, and 13-year-old Joseph Wendelinus.

In a message read on her behalf by the Omusati governor, President Nandi-Ndaitwah said their deaths are a great loss to the nation.

"These were young lives filled with potential, dreams, and the promise of a bright future in which they could contribute to the development of their motherland. Their presence brought love, joy, and meaning to your family. Their passing leaves an immense void that words alone cannot adequately express. Although their lives were tragically cut short, may the precious memories you shared with them become a source of strength and comfort as you navigate the difficult days ahead."

They were buried at Onambada Cemetery on Saturday.

Two of the survivors, a 54-year-old woman and her 15-year-old son, are still in the hospital.

The cause of the fire has not yet been established.