Kinshasa, the vibrant capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is facing a major challenge: recurring floods that affect several areas of the city. Torrential rains transform the streets into raging torrents, endangering the daily lives of residents and causing significant damage. In this worrying context, the issue of urban sanitation becomes crucial.
Asked about this hot topic, Gaston Shako Openge, an expert in building and public works, highlights the fundamental issues. According to him, the key to solving the flood problem lies in a global and sustainable approach. He emphasizes the importance of cleaning sanitation facilities, which are often blocked or insufficient, and insists on the need to review the urban planning of the most affected areas. Structural and preventive measures are necessary to avoid the human and economic tragedies caused by floods.
Waste management and the proper functioning of sanitation networks are at the heart of the solutions proposed by Gaston Shako Openge. He points out the lack of an effective sanitation policy in Kinshasa, stressing that the efforts undertaken so far have not succeeded in solving the problem in a sustainable way. He calls for a thorough reflection on the sanitation of the city and warns against the persistence of floods if adequate measures are not taken.
The current situation raises essential questions on urban planning, water resource management and the responsibility of local authorities. It is imperative to adopt an integrated approach, involving technical experts, political decision-makers and local communities, to find sustainable solutions to flooding in Kinshasa. The climate emergency and the challenges related to urbanization call for concerted and resolute action to preserve the quality of life of city dwellers and protect the environment.
In conclusion, flooding in Kinshasa is not inevitable. It is the result of political choices, inappropriate urban planning and unsustainable practices. It is time to take courageous measures to transform the city into a space resilient to climate hazards. The safety and well-being of the inhabitants of Kinshasa depend on our ability to rethink our relationship with urban planning, water and the environment.