Article link: https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/10/17/naufrage-de-la-baleiniere-mapamboli-a-mbandaka-images-des-operations-de-recherche-et-de-sauvetage/
Sinking of the Mapamboli whaling boat in Mbandaka: images of search and rescue operations
The tragic sinking of the Mapamboli whaleboat in Mbandaka continues to cause emotion and concern. Local authorities confirmed that the death toll rose to 50, with more than 180 people still missing. Search and rescue operations are intensive in the hope of finding new survivors.
Harrowing images of rescuers diving into the rushing waters of the Congo River to try to locate the missing people have been widely broadcast. Rescue teams are trying to deploy all necessary means to find the victims and provide support to the survivors.
However, Congolese civil society in Ecuador deplores the irresponsibility of local authorities in managing the safety of river transport. Despite the ban on night navigation issued by the central government, it seems that this measure has not been strictly applied in the province of Équateur. The dangers linked to the overloading of boats, the poor marking of waterways and the non-compliance of boats are all factors which contribute to recurring shipwrecks along Congolese maritime routes.
The President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi, expressed his desire to take measures to improve the safety of river transport. He stressed the importance of considering the Congo River and rivers as an extension of the national road network, in order to guarantee equitable access to all citizens of the DRC. Efforts must be made to strengthen regulations and controls to prevent future tragedies.
In the meantime, solidarity is being organized to help the survivors of the shipwreck of the Mapamboli whaling ship. The provincial and central governments are working together to provide adequate assistance and support to survivors, as well as the victims’ families. Emergency measures are being put in place to respond to immediate needs in terms of medical care, accommodation and psychological support.
The sinking of the Mapamboli whaling vessel in Mbandaka is a tragic reminder of the challenges facing the DRC in terms of maritime security. It is imperative that concrete measures are taken to ensure the safety of river transport and minimize the risk of similar disasters in the future. The protection of human lives must remain an absolute priority, and this requires effective coordination between the different authorities involved in the management of Congolese waterways.