Around 30 Dead Following Flooding in Kinshasa, DR Congo

Flooding in Kinshasa, DR Congo, has resulted in around 30 deaths due to torrential rains. The overflow of the Ndjili River has caused substantial damage, leaving numerous residents without power and water supply. Governor Lubaki cited illegal housing as a contributing factor, while ongoing conflicts in the eastern regions exacerbate the crisis.

Recent flooding in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in approximately 30 fatalities, as reported by provincial health official Patricien Gongo Abakazi. The torrential rainfall over the weekend led to significant damage, impacting homes and vital infrastructure within the city of 17 million inhabitants.

The overflow of the Ndjili River on Friday night caused severe disruptions, including the blockage of the main national road, which left many drivers stranded. “We spent the night in the car because there was no safe place to park,” recounted Patricia Mikonga, a local resident experiencing the crisis first-hand.

Further complicating the situation, various neighborhoods have encountered power outages. In the Makala district, resident Kerene Yala highlighted the main concern: a significant cutoff in water supply. Governor Daniel Bumba Lubaki confirmed that the water infrastructure had been impacted but assured that supply would be restored within a few days.

In a televised address, Governor Lubaki attributed part of the flooding issues to illegal housing practices and indicated plans to remove residents from unregulated settlements. Hydrologist Dr. Raphael Tshimanga Muamba noted that human activity has degraded the river’s capacity, resulting in its inability to manage floodwater effectively.

This flooding occurs amid heightened instability for the Central African nation, with escalated military conflict involving Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in the eastern regions, leading to over 7,000 casualties in the early months of the year.

The flooding in Kinshasa has resulted in significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need for improved environmental management and urban planning. Authorities are addressing immediate needs but must also consider long-term solutions to prevent future disasters. The backdrop of ongoing conflict further complicates recovery efforts and emphasizes the precarious situation in the region.

Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com