Severe Flooding in Kinshasa Claims Around 30 Lives and Causes Infrastructure Crisis

Severe flooding in Kinshasa, DRC, has resulted in around 30 deaths and major infrastructure damage, with residents facing power outages and water supply disruptions. Governor Bumba blames illegal housing for some fatalities and promises to restore services within days. The flooding exacerbates existing tensions from ongoing conflicts in the region.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, approximately 30 fatalities have been reported due to severe flooding caused by torrential rains over the weekend. Provincial health minister Patricien Gongo Abakazi confirmed the death toll, which is currently provisional. The flooding, which began Friday night, resulted in the overflow of the Ndjili River, blocking key national routes and trapping numerous drivers since Saturday evening.

Residents have reported prolonged power outages in several neighborhoods post-flooding. Kinshasa resident Patricia Mikonga described a night spent stranded in her vehicle while trying to return from the airport, underscoring the lack of safe parking areas. Meanwhile, Kerene Yala from the Makala district noted major concerns regarding the disruption of water supply, which has been cut off amid the flooding.

Governor Daniel Bumba Lubaki acknowledged the impact on water infrastructure but promised restoration within two to three days. He attributed some fatalities to illegal housing in vulnerable areas and suggested potential evictions from unplanned settlements to prevent future tragedies. Hydrologist Dr. Raphael Tshimanga Muamba commented on the implications of human activity on river systems, highlighting that degradation has reduced their ability to manage floods effectively.

Furthermore, this catastrophic event occurs during a precarious period for the DRC, with ongoing conflict in the east exacerbated by an offensive from Rwanda-backed M23 rebels resulting in over 7,000 casualties in the early months of the year.

The severe flooding in Kinshasa has led to approximately 30 confirmed deaths, significant displacement, and power outages, revealing vulnerabilities within the city’s infrastructure. Officials are responding with promises to restore services but face broader challenges linked to illegal housing and ongoing conflicts in the region. This situation underscores the need for urgent infrastructure improvements and disaster preparedness in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com