The situation is dire as search and rescue efforts continue amid rising water levels, with calls for government intervention growing louder.
Dozens Killed in Devastating Floods in Kinshasa, DRC
Dozens Killed in Devastating Floods in Kinshasa, DRC
Torrential rain and flooding have left 33 dead and many more displaced in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
At least 33 people have been confirmed dead following relentless rains and widespread flooding in Kinshasa, the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The torrential downpours have forced residents to escape to safety by wading through the murky waters, swimming, or using makeshift canoes.
In a heartfelt address, President Félix Tshisekedi assured victims of government support, stating, "The republic will not abandon you," as he convened a crisis meeting to address the disaster. Kinshasa, home to around 17 million residents, sits alongside the expansive Congo River, which has recently reached unprecedented levels not seen in 60 years, exacerbating flooding conditions.
The aftermath of the flooding has devastated the western districts of the city, where many homes were destroyed overnight. Reports indicate that approximately half of Kinshasa's 26 districts have been severely impacted, particularly the outskirts and poorer neighborhoods. Local resident Christophe Bola described harrowing scenes in the Ndanu area, stating, "The water has reached 1.5 metres high. We have just managed to save ourselves, the rest is trapped in our homes."
As desperation grows, many residents have criticized local authorities for their slow response to the crisis, pleading for more substantial aid. The floods have also hampered access to clean water, as inundated water treatment facilities leave residents without essential resources. Major transport routes, including the road connecting the city center to the international airport, are currently impassable, complicating rescue efforts.
Deputy President Jacquemain Shabani confirmed that the overflowing N'djili River, known for its pollution issues, has trapped numerous residents, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding sewage management and town planning in Kinshasa. The government had previously announced that it was looking into these longstanding challenges.
As relief efforts commence, meteorological authorities are warning of further heavy rainfall not only in Kinshasa but also in other regions of the country, raising fears of compounded flooding and additional humanitarian distress.
In a heartfelt address, President Félix Tshisekedi assured victims of government support, stating, "The republic will not abandon you," as he convened a crisis meeting to address the disaster. Kinshasa, home to around 17 million residents, sits alongside the expansive Congo River, which has recently reached unprecedented levels not seen in 60 years, exacerbating flooding conditions.
The aftermath of the flooding has devastated the western districts of the city, where many homes were destroyed overnight. Reports indicate that approximately half of Kinshasa's 26 districts have been severely impacted, particularly the outskirts and poorer neighborhoods. Local resident Christophe Bola described harrowing scenes in the Ndanu area, stating, "The water has reached 1.5 metres high. We have just managed to save ourselves, the rest is trapped in our homes."
As desperation grows, many residents have criticized local authorities for their slow response to the crisis, pleading for more substantial aid. The floods have also hampered access to clean water, as inundated water treatment facilities leave residents without essential resources. Major transport routes, including the road connecting the city center to the international airport, are currently impassable, complicating rescue efforts.
Deputy President Jacquemain Shabani confirmed that the overflowing N'djili River, known for its pollution issues, has trapped numerous residents, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding sewage management and town planning in Kinshasa. The government had previously announced that it was looking into these longstanding challenges.
As relief efforts commence, meteorological authorities are warning of further heavy rainfall not only in Kinshasa but also in other regions of the country, raising fears of compounded flooding and additional humanitarian distress.
