Fatshimetrie: A worrying phenomenon affecting Mateko, in the territory of Idiofa
The village of Mateko, located in the territory of Idiofa, is facing an alarming situation: an increase in attacks by stray dogs. The figures are unequivocal: in just one month, the number of people bitten increased from 17 to 49, with unfortunately 3 deaths recorded, including 2 women and a 15-year-old young man. This situation highlights a recurring problem in the region, recalling the tragic events of the previous year which had already left three dead among around twenty victims.
Treating people who have been bitten is a priority for local health teams, who are working to vaccinate individuals who have been attacked by these stray dogs against rabies. However, despite these efforts, the number of cases continues to rise worryingly. Civil society in Kwilu, through its first vice-president Placide Mukwa, is calling on the government to take urgent measures to definitively stop this phenomenon.
Placide Mukwa underlines the lack of effective management of the situation, and calls for concrete actions to stem this threat which hangs over the population. He believes that it is necessary to adopt strong measures, even if they may seem radical, such as the culling of stray dogs to ensure the safety of residents. The situation is such that people now carry sticks to defend themselves, which is far from being a viable long-term solution.
Faced with this scourge which resurfaces in Idiofa after almost a year, it is essential that the provincial health authorities take appropriate measures to protect the population. Despite our attempts to contact the provincial minister and the provincial health division, no official communication has been made so far. It is essential that these authorities understand the urgency of the situation and act quickly to stem this crisis.
The village of Mateko and its residents face a real threat to their security and well-being. It is imperative to put in place effective measures to contain this phenomenon of stray dogs and avoid new victims. The silence of the authorities in the face of this critical situation cannot continue, it is time to act to protect the population of Mateko and put an end to this wave of attacks which is plunging the community into mourning.