Fatshimetrie, an online news journal, recently reported on a tragedy that struck the city of Matadi, the capital of the Kongo-Central province, on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds wreaked havoc, killing nearly 6 people, injuring many others, and causing significant material damage.
Residents’ testimonies report devastating floods that affected several neighborhoods in Matadi. In the commune of Matadi, the boundary wall of the Congolese Agency for Major Works collapsed, killing a plantain seller and injuring others. Tragically, two children were swept away by the waters in the Salongo district, and a young boy died in Mongo, in the commune of Mvuzi.
In addition to the loss of life, several infrastructures were damaged during this violent weather event. Houses and fences have collapsed, and vehicles have ended up in gutters. The situation is critical, and local civil society is calling for urgent action to provide assistance to affected families, repair the damage, and strengthen drainage systems to prevent future disasters.
In the face of this tragedy, it is important to emphasize the importance of preparedness and responsiveness in the event of extreme weather events. Local authorities must put in place effective measures to protect populations and limit damage in the event of natural disasters.
The events in Matadi are a reminder of the vulnerability of cities to climate hazards and the need to invest in resilient infrastructure. It is imperative to raise awareness among the population about the importance of preventing natural risks and to take concrete measures to strengthen the safety of residents.
At a time when climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, it is essential to remain vigilant and mobilize collectively to protect our communities and our environment. Tragedies like the one in Matadi must remind us of the urgency of acting to build a safer and more resilient future for all.