### Flight of electric cables in Nzilo: an alarming situations for the Southeast Congolese
On April 10, 2025, the National Electricity Company (SNEL) reported the significant flight of more than 40 meters of aluminum cables on the high tension line of 120 kilovolts between the Nzilo and Héro dam, in the province of Lualaba, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This incident, qualified as sabotage, has had immediate impact on the production and distribution of electricity in the region, thus insulating Kolwezi and paralyzing a large part of its electricity supply.
### something sabotage with ecological and economic consequences
The impact of this act is not to be taken lightly. According to Mwamba, the director of production SNEL Center-Sud, the outbreak of Nzilo and Nseke power plants could have lasting consequences on the electric service in the region. The situation raises questions on the security of critical infrastructure in a country which already fights with challenges of access to electricity. The inconvenience linked to electricity cuts are not only a matter of comfort, but also impact the local economy, the productivity of companies and the quality of life of citizens.
The theft took place despite the presence of the Republican Guard and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), thus asking questions about the effectiveness of the security measures in place. How is it that an act of this magnitude could have occurred? What adjustments could be necessary to guarantee the safety of infrastructure essential to the population?
### a systematic reaction and a commitment to restore the situation
The SNEL quickly mobilized its technical teams to replace the stolen sections and restore the line. A positive commitment which testifies to an awareness of critical issues surrounding electricity in this region.
However, it is imperative to look at long -term solutions. Improving infrastructure security involves multifaceted strategies, including not only strengthening surveillance, but also awareness of the population on the importance of electrical security. Prevention partly involves citizen involvement. How to encourage the local community to feel involved in protecting its resources? The SNEL could consider educational programs to inform the population about the harmful effects of cable flights on their own experience.
#### Call to vigilance and patience of the population
In the public announcement, the SNEL calls on the population to show patience and vigilance. This message, although necessary, can also be perceived as a call to collective responsibility, emphasizing the importance of a collaboration between citizens and infrastructure managers. This symbiosis is essential for eradicating behaviors which, in the end, harm the community itself.
#### Conclusion: Towards a reflection on electrical security in the DRC
This incident illustrates not only the challenges that the DRC faced on the energy level, but also the interconnection between security, infrastructure and citizen responsibility. It is crucial to adopt a systemic approach to find lasting solutions.
Through awareness -raising conferences, information tours, and reinforced collaboration between local authorities and SNEL, it would be possible to build a culture of protection of collective achievements. Thus, the flight of cables is not only a criminal act: it is an alarm signal which invites to a deeper reflection on electrical safety issues and the vitality of the social fabric in the region.
It is legitimate to wonder how the lessons of this incident could influence the energy policy of the DRC in the years to come. What will ultimately be the impacts of these events on the management of vital infrastructure and population security? The answer to these questions could well go through a strengthening of partnerships, better communication, and increased awareness among citizens.