Eleven newborn babies died in a fire in a hospital in the West African country of Senegal.

The fire broke out at night in the maternity ward of the Mame Abdou Aziz Sy Dabakh hospital in the western city of Tivaouane, President Macky Sall wrote on Twitter on Thursday.

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According to initial reports, the fire was caused by a short circuit and spread rapidly.

Health Minister, Abdoulaye Diouf Sarr, has announced an independent investigation.

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The government also promised to audit the technical equipment of clinics nationwide.

A Tivaouane resident, who volunteered to help with the rescue efforts, told DPA that three babies had been rescued from the flames. (DPA/NAN)