Reflection on the issues and challenges of road safety in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
The city of Kinshasa, the changing capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the scene of many challenges in terms of road safety. Police harassment, long decried by the population, constitutes a major problem on the city’s main roads. The recent decision to prohibit the Traffic Police from stopping drivers on certain arteries, such as Avenue de Libération or Boulevard du 30 Juin, aims to combat these abusive practices.
This measure, announced by the provincial police commissioner of the city of Kinshasa, Blaise Kilimbalimba, is an important first step in restoring citizens’ trust in the police. Indeed, police harassment not only hinders the flow of traffic, but also fuels a climate of insecurity and mistrust.
At the same time, the suspension of the “Porta tout” phenomenon, which consists of towing vehicles suspected of improper parking, is another salutary measure. This practice, often arbitrary and a source of conflict, will now be suspended until further notice. Drivers who are victims of these abusive seizures are encouraged to contact the police directly to assert their rights.
However, these actions are only the beginning of a series of changes needed to improve road safety in Kinshasa. Potholes, caused by bad weather, are another major obstacle on the roads of the Congolese capital. Traffic is often disrupted, endangering the safety of users. The provincial commissioner calls for patience from drivers while waiting for the backfilling work on these damaged sections.
It is now urgent for the Kinshasa authorities to put in place sustainable measures to guarantee the safety of citizens on the roads. Awareness campaigns, regular patrols and maintenance work are essential to ensure the flow of traffic and reduce the risk of accidents.
In conclusion, the issue of road safety in Kinshasa is a major challenge that requires concerted action by the authorities, law enforcement and citizens. By combating police harassment, suspending abusive practices and repairing damaged infrastructure, it is possible to create a safer and more pleasant environment for all road users.