The threatening erosion looming over Kalemie Central Prison in Tanganyika province raises crucial questions about the safety of inmates and prison staff. Radio Okapi reporters recently highlighted this alarming situation, exacerbated by the heavy rains that have hit the region in recent months. The proximity of this erosion head to the prison wall is a source of concern and calls for rapid action by the authorities.
The severity of the threat was previously reported in November 2022, with another head of erosion coming dangerously close to the prison’s boundary wall. Despite these repeated alerts, calls for help from prison officials went unanswered by the competent authorities, allowing the situation to deteriorate further.
The findings of Radio Okapi reporters also reveal other damage, notably the collapse of the bridge which spans the Kalemie River, the main access to the prison. This situation seriously compromises the safety of people visiting the establishment and endangers the circulation of goods and services essential to its operation.
The presence of this threatening erosion near the prison’s septic tank, built as part of quick-impact projects, raises additional concerns about the environmental and health impact of this situation.
Tanganyika’s provincial infrastructure minister points out the delay in implementing the work necessary to counter these threats, accusing the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) in the province of dragging its feet in authorizing the funds necessary for these interventions vital.
Faced with this imminent threat, it is imperative that emergency measures be taken to secure Kalemie central prison and protect the lives of incarcerated people and prison officers. The issue goes beyond the simple question of damaged infrastructure; it is about guaranteeing the safety and dignity of individuals, even behind bars.
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