DRC: The Luhuku bridge collapses in Kayembe, the population in difficulty
The inhabitants of Kayembe, capital of the Salamabila sector in the province of Maniema, have been facing major difficulties since the collapse of the Luhuku bridge. For several days, activities have slowed down in the region, impacting travel, commerce and access to education.
According to Saidi Vumba, human rights activist and notable in the region, the life of the population has become difficult due to the collapse of this essential structure. Students from neighboring villages have difficulty getting to school, vehicles are blocked, which leads to an increase in the prices of food products.
“We are in a rainy period and waters regularly flood the region. This bridge is between the villages of Kalimaungu and Kayembe, which makes it difficult for children to cross to get to school. Even pedestrians and motorcyclists are confronted difficulties. In addition, vehicles coming from South Kivu cannot cross, which complicates the situation for traders waiting for their goods,” laments Saidi Vumba.
Faced with this critical situation, he calls on the provincial government of Maniema to intervene quickly for the construction of a new bridge. He points out that it has already been more than two weeks since the collapse of the Luhuku Bridge was reported, but no concrete action has yet been taken.
“It is urgent that the provincial government provide support to the sector head who has limited resources for the reconstruction of this bridge. The rehabilitation of the bridge must be carried out as quickly as possible,” he insists.
The collapse of the Luhuku Bridge in Kayembe highlights the infrastructure challenges facing many parts of the DRC. Local populations suffer from insufficient means of transport and difficulties in accessing essential services.
The provincial government must take immediate action to resolve this critical situation and ensure the residents of Kayembe have safe and seamless access to the services necessary for their daily lives. The construction of a new bridge is a priority to restore mobility and development in this region of Maniema.