Title: Floods in Kalehe (South Kivu): one month later, the critical situation of the victims raises concerns
On May 4, the inhabitants of Kalehe, in the province of South Kivu, were affected by torrential rains which caused the death of 583 people and the disappearance of more than 5,000 people. A month later, the situation of the victims remains critical and raises concerns about the responses provided by the authorities.
In the region, the search for the bodies buried under the rubble has been suspended for logistical reasons. The affected populations are still waiting to be relocated, but so far the government has not provided them with suitable housing. The sites affected by the flooding have been declared unsuitable for habitation and it is planned that trees will be replanted there. However, these measures seem insufficient to respond to the humanitarian emergency on the spot.
Among the other priority needs of the victims is the reopening of national road number 2 (RN2) linking Bukavu to Goma. Its repair work is progressing very slowly due to the lack of labor and materials. In addition, the few humanitarian organizations active in this field are struggling to provide a comprehensive response in terms of drinking water, food, medical and psychological assistance.
Furthermore, the deterioration of the social situation in the DRC is a matter of concern for civil society. The opposition also demanded a reliable and transparent electoral register for the upcoming legislative and provincial elections. The security crisis in North Kivu is also on the rise, the M23 rebellion is strengthening its troops and threatening the city of Goma.
Faced with these various emergencies, the population of Kinshasa wonders what will be the next step to remedy this alarming situation.