Tragic Flooding in Kinshasa Leaves 33 Dead and Displaces Hundreds

Flooding in Kinshasa, DRC, has led to 33 reported deaths, with authorities attempting evacuations. Heavy rains caused the Ndjili River to overflow, impacting infrastructure and drinking water access. Residents have expressed frustration over the government’s response. The flooding adds to ongoing humanitarian struggles in the country.

The death toll from recent flooding in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has risen to 33, as authorities work urgently to evacuate families trapped in their homes. Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemin Shabani confirmed that the number of fatalities included ten new victims discovered as of Sunday evening, in addition to the 23 reported the previous day.

Heavy rains that began last week led to the overflow of the Ndjili River on Friday, inundating numerous buildings. While conditions showed signs of improvement by Monday morning, many roads remained impassable and traffic was still hindered. Residents have criticized the government for its sluggish response to the disaster.

Marie Nzola, one resident, lamented, “We lost everything and left everything behind. The rain caught us by surprise late at night.” Officials attributed the majority of deaths to collapsing walls that succumbed to the torrential rains. The main route to the airport, which is vital for connecting Kinshasa to the rest of the country, has sustained damage but is expected to reopen within 72 hours, according to Governor Daniel Bumba.

Additionally, the flooding has disrupted access to drinking water in at least 16 neighborhoods as water supply facilities were impacted. The government has activated four emergency shelters that are assisting hundreds of displaced families throughout the city. Resident Clement Matwidi expressed his discontent, stating, “Everything is lost due to the floods and we are here waiting for the government’s decision.”

This calamity follows a similar incident in 2022 when at least 100 fatalities were recorded due to flooding in Kinshasa. The current disaster adds strain as the government grapples with a humanitarian crisis in eastern regions of the country, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts with rebels since February, contributing to one of the world’s largest humanitarian challenges.

The recent flooding in Kinshasa has resulted in a tragic death toll and significant damage, with residents calling for swifter government action to address their needs. The disaster has not only claimed lives but has also disrupted essential services and left many families displaced. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in the east further complicates the government’s ability to respond effectively to such emergencies.

Original Source: www.breakingnews.ie