The recent tragic fire that ravaged the large depot of the Centrale de Distribution des Médicaments de Kisangani (CAMEKIS) not only resulted in the loss of essential medicines estimated at over US$1 million, but also highlighted security lapses and undesirable behaviors during crises.
CAMEKIS Director, Dr. Aimé Eyane, shared the extent of the damage caused by the fire, noting that the destroyed medicines were intended for life-saving treatments for tuberculosis, HIV, malaria and even COVID-19. These losses are not only a financial loss, but also a blow to the health of the populations who depend on these medicines for their survival.
The incident also revealed a dark side of humanity, as some people took advantage of the confusion and chaos to loot the remains of the burnt depot. Director Eyane expressed his dismay at these acts of theft, stressing that even individuals in whom trust was placed succumbed to the temptation of opportunism during this major crisis.
The CAMEKIS depot was a vital link in the drug supply chain for the 23 health zones in Tshopo province, as well as four other zones located in the north of Maniema province. With a storage capacity of 300,000 m³, this site was a pillar of public health in the region, supplying health facilities with essential medicines.
As authorities attempt to determine the origin of the fire and address this immediate health crisis, this event underscores the importance of strengthening security measures to protect vital infrastructure such as drug depots. It also highlights the need to build a culture of solidarity and mutual respect during emergencies, to prevent acts of looting and foster an effective collective response.
Ultimately, this fire has triggered a series of reflections on the security of health infrastructure, crisis preparedness and the importance of a coordinated and ethical response to emergencies. It is now up to the authorities and the health community to learn from this tragedy and work together to rebuild and strengthen the medicine distribution system in the region, to ensure continuity of care for the most vulnerable populations.