The Water Distribution Authority (REGIDESO) recently highlighted a worrying problem during a press briefing and a guided tour of its facilities in Kinshasa. The general director, David Tshilumba, denounced the anarchic occupation of some of its sites, both in the Congolese capital and in other provinces.
According to him, REGIDESO requires assistance from the Government to guarantee the security of its concessions intended for the expansion of its activities across the country. Indeed, cases of land fraud have been reported, where plots were allocated illegally on land legitimately belonging to REGIDESO. In addition, some sites were invaded without authorization, jeopardizing the proper functioning of the company.
David Tshilumba underlines the importance of fencing these spaces to prevent such intrusions. He calls for close collaboration with the Congolese State to ensure compliance with commitments made and provide the necessary means to secure REGIDESO concessions. He mentions in particular the case of Maluku, where legal battles took place to determine the ownership of the filter mass collection site. Thanks to these trials, REGIDESO was able to prove its legitimacy on the ground, but vigilance remains required to defend its rights in the event of a dispute.
This situation highlights the challenges that public companies like REGIDESO face in terms of land management and protection of their infrastructure. Cooperation with the authorities is essential to guarantee the sustainability of services provided to the population in terms of water supply.