Floods in Kinshasa: the level of the Congo River reaches historic records
In a press release published recently, the Régie des passages fluviales (RVF) sounded the alarm on the “exceptional rise” in the waters of the Congo River and its tributaries. This critical situation threatens not only economic activities, but also the populations living near the Kinshasa floodplain. The deputy director general of the RVF, Divine Mulumba Kapinga, calls on the authorities and the population to take urgent measures to deal with these floods.
According to the information reported, the level of the Congo River has reached historic records, approaching that observed in 1961. This situation endangers the lives of residents, exposed to the risk of drowning and water-borne diseases. Neighborhoods like Ndanu and Petro-Congo are already under water, while the city of Bumba, in the province of Mongala, has been facing serious flooding since the beginning of the month. The consequences are devastating, affecting both homes and administrative infrastructure.
Faced with this worrying situation, the government is taking emergency measures to help families affected by these natural disasters. During a meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, Samuel Lukonde, the ministers were instructed to take the necessary measures to provide assistance and support to the victims.
It is also essential to strengthen measures to prevent and manage natural disasters in the DRC. This requires better urban planning, the establishment of early warning systems and the improvement of drainage infrastructure to limit the effects of flooding.
This tragic episode highlights the importance of raising public awareness of the risks linked to climate change and uncontrolled urbanization. It is crucial to promote concrete actions aimed at reducing the effects of flooding and ensuring the safety of residents.
In conclusion, the ongoing floods in Kinshasa and other regions of the DRC require general mobilization and collective awareness. It is imperative that the authorities, the population and the stakeholders concerned work hand in hand to deal with this emergency situation and put in place sustainable actions to prevent such disasters in the future.