Fatshimetrie
A tragedy struck Lake Ntumba on the night of Sunday to Monday, causing the loss of four lives following the sinking of a rowing canoe. The boat, which had set off at the same time as others in a caravan, was caught in a violent storm that disrupted its peaceful crossing.
Franck Mputela, President of the Association of Indigenous Pygmy Peoples of Bikoro, confirmed that the capsized canoe belonged to a group of travelers who had come from the village of Nzalekenga Mokonda to attend a customary wedding in the village of Lokanga Lo Malembe. Unfortunately, the planned return turned into a watery nightmare.
When the storm broke, the canoe, with about ten passengers on board, could not withstand the onslaught of wind and waves. Four members of the same family were killed, leaving a community in mourning. Five other individuals were rescued, but the trauma of this tragic night will remain anchored in them.
The local authorities, represented by the administrator of the territory of Bikoro, Justin Mputu Nkoy, reacted quickly by sending rescue teams to the scene of the tragedy. The latter wanted to reiterate the importance of caution when crossing the lake, particularly during the flood season. Reinforced security measures could thus prevent new shipwrecks and avoid other heartbreaking human losses.
This poignant story reminds us of the fragility of life and the relentless force of nature. It highlights the courage of the rescuers and the solidarity of the communities in the face of adversity. Let us hope that this tragedy serves as a lesson and encourages everyone to be vigilant and respectful of the natural elements that surround us, because safety at sea cannot be neglected.