### Kinshasa: a state of catastrophic roads, an urgent reflection on urban infrastructure
In a city where mobility is essential to daily life, the question of road infrastructure is much more than a simple subject of conversation. Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, perfectly illustrates the colossal challenges encountered by a country in search of development. The current situation of the roads, marked by an advanced state of degradation, is alarming and deserves urgent attention. Indeed, apart from a few main arteries such as the Boulevard of June 30 and that of Lumumba, the majority of roads remain impassable. These conditions have repercussions that go far beyond the simple traffic jams, affecting the local economy, public health and even social cohesion.
#### The strategic importance of road infrastructure
To understand the seriousness of the situation, it is crucial to understand the fundamental role that roads play in the socio-economic fabric of Kinshasa. A study by the World Bank stresses that adequate road infrastructure can increase the GDP of a nation by promoting access to markets, health services and education. Despite this knowledge, Kinshasa seems to be trapped in a degradation cycle, where the roads are not only of poor quality, but also insufficient in the face of the growing demand for a rapid and disorderly уbanization.
### causes of degradation
Among the causes of this disastrous situation, there are several factors, such as the lack of regular maintenance, corruption, as well as a deficient urban planning. Jody Nkashama spoke with John Kabwidi Bwidi, construction engineer, who stressed that the budgets allocated to infrastructure are often diverted, leaving the roads in the hands of fatality. In addition, the rapid demographic growth of Kinshasa, which is around 15 million inhabitants, accentuates the pressure on already fragile infrastructure.
#### A comparative perspective
By introducing a comparative dimension, it is interesting to look at the examples of urban development of other African cities. Take the example of Kigali in Rwanda. Thanks to rigorous governance and a clear vision in terms of urban planning, Kigali has managed to transform its road network and significantly reduce traffic jams. Rwandan authorities have invested in modern construction technologies, and have set up a proactive infrastructure maintenance system. Conversely, Kinshasa often uses temporary solutions, like simple fillings of hens nests, which do not solve the structural problem.
### towards sustainable solutions
So how do you effectively remedy this problem? The answer lies in the formulation of an integrated strategy that combines technology, governance and citizen participation. Here are some solutions that could be envisaged:
1. ** Pointer technology **: The use of infrastructure monitoring technologies can considerably improve the condition of the roads. Thanks to artificial intelligence and geolocation systems, it is possible to monitor the state of roads in real time and to alert the authorities to immediate repair needs.
2. ** crowdfunding **: Recently, the idea of calling on private funds or public-private partnerships (PPP) has gained popularity. By mobilizing external investments, not only could Kinshasa restore its roads, but it could also develop a financing model which reduces pressure on public budgets.
3. ** Training and awareness -raising **: A community sensitized to the importance of infrastructure and respect for public goods may contribute to the preservation of the latter. Awareness campaigns on responsible use of roads could be set up.
4. ** Sustainable urban planning **: Finally, adopting a proactive approach to urban planning is undeniably crucial. Refleted town planning, taking into account traffic flows, can prevent the emergence of future infrastructure problems.
#### Conclusion
Kinshasa needs a radical renewal of its road infrastructure, but this cannot be done without a collective commitment. The Congolese capital, a symbol of African wealth and potential, cannot afford to stay in modern development. By adopting transparent governance strategies, integrating innovative technologies and by mobilizing all stakeholders, it is possible to transform this scourge into a boom. Because beyond the nests of hens and traffic jams, it is the life, health and the future of millions of inhabitants that are at stake. Kinshasa roads must become ways of hope and prosperity, so that each Congolese is not only a resident of a city, but an actor of change.