During the 114th meeting of the Council of Ministers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde announced a natural tragedy which took place in the town of Lisala, province of Mongala, during the night of September 16 to 17. Heavy rains led to a landslide, killing 17 people and destroying many homes.
The government quickly reacted by sending a mission there, led by the Minister of Social Affairs and Humanitarian Actions, Modeste Mutinga. This mission aims to provide initial support to the victims and to bury the victims.
This natural disaster highlights the risks faced by certain regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the face of bad weather. José Lipango, provincial youth councilor, stressed that the town of Lisala has been threatened by erosion heads for several years, which contributed to the occurrence of this landslide. He therefore asks that the city be integrated into the government program to combat erosion.
Unfortunately, this event is not isolated. In May 2023, a similar disaster occurred in Tshikapa, causing the death of five people in a landslide. Also in May 2023, nearly 400 people lost their lives during torrential rains in the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi, in South Kivu province.
It is essential that the government takes measures to strengthen the prevention of natural disasters and protect exposed populations. Investments in infrastructure and the establishment of early warning systems can help reduce risks and save lives.
In conclusion, the Lisala tragedy is a reminder of the urgency of acting in the face of the natural risks facing certain regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is imperative that preventive measures be taken to ensure the safety of populations and minimize the consequences of these disasters.