Kinshasa Flooding Results in 33 Deaths and Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis

Flooding in Kinshasa has resulted in 33 deaths and significant infrastructural damage. Heavy rains caused the Ndjili River to overflow, impacting accessibility and drinking water supply. Emergency shelters have been established, but many residents criticize the government’s response. The situation is further complicated by ongoing humanitarian issues in the east of the country.

The flooding in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in a death toll of 33, prompting urgent evacuation efforts for families trapped in their homes. Following heavy rains that began last week, the Ndjili River overflowed, leading to widespread flooding that submerged numerous buildings. The situation improved by Monday morning, but many roads remain inaccessible, causing substantial traffic restrictions.

As the disaster unfolded, residents blamed the government for its slow response. One survivor, Marie Nzola, recounted her loss, stating, “We lost everything and left everything behind; the rain caught us by surprise late at night.” According to officials, wall collapses contributed significantly to the fatalities as the flooding began.

The main access road to the airport, a vital route for connecting Kinshasa with the rest of the country, sustained damage but is expected to reopen within 72 hours. Additionally, the flooding disrupted drinking water supplies in at least 16 communes, affecting local infrastructures. In response, the government established four emergency shelters to accommodate hundreds of displaced families.

Resident Clement Matwidi voiced his concerns over the lack of governmental support, as he relies on aid after losing everything to the floods: “Everything is lost due to the floods and we are here waiting for the government’s decision.” This flooding disaster echoes a similar incident in 2022 that claimed over 100 lives. Furthermore, it coincides with a significant humanitarian crisis affecting eastern regions of the country due to ongoing violence and conflict.

The severe flooding in Kinshasa has caused substantial loss of life and property, highlighting governmental response challenges. With 33 confirmed deaths and extensive infrastructural damage, the situation remains critical. Urgent evacuation and relief efforts are underway, yet frustrations grow among residents regarding the pace of government support. This disaster underscores the ongoing humanitarian challenges within the Democratic Republic of Congo, exacerbated by concurrent crises in the eastern regions.

Original Source: www.breakingnews.ie