In a recent event which shook the commune of Kintambo, residents are in turmoil over the despoilment of the Salongo district office by third parties. This office, newly built in partnership with the city of UCCLE in Belgium, has occupied a central place in community life since its inauguration in October 2022.
Indeed, this partnership was initiated under the former mayor Didier Tenge-Te-Litho and the current mayor Inona Sengi Fatuma continued the project, demonstrating its importance for the commune of Kintambo. The contract initially aimed at the construction of offices in the neighborhoods of the municipality, with the Salongo neighborhood office as the first concrete achievement.
However, the project is currently threatened by the illegal construction of a gas station on the very site of the Neighborhood Office. The residents, grouped around the “Kintambo na Biso” Club, express their indignation at this dispossession and highlight the social and community issues that this office represents for the daily life of residents.
Faced with this situation, actions were taken to stop construction work on the service station, in particular by contacting the competent authorities. Residents fear potential clashes with law enforcement if the situation is not resolved peacefully and justly.
It is crucial to emphasize that the construction of this gas station appears to be motivated by financial and personal interests, to the detriment of community interest and the preservation of local infrastructure. Residents are organizing to defend the Salongo neighborhood office and demanding respect for their rights and their common heritage.
In a context where the fight against corruption and abuse of power is at the heart of concerns, it is essential that the authorities take concrete measures to protect public assets and guarantee the well-being of local communities. The inhabitants of Kintambo remain mobilized and determined to defend their community heritage, symbol of their identity and their history.