** Kinshasa and the challenge of sanitation: the initiative “cleaning Kinshasa” in perspective **
On April 10, 2025, in Kinshasa, a crucial dialogue was started around the “cleaning Kinshasa” project, a initiative marking a potential turning point in the fight against the sanitation problems that affect the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Presented by C&S Expertise, this initiative aims to federate the actors involved in the sanitation sector to meet the pressing challenges encountered by this urban metropolis, in particular in terms of waste management and health infrastructure.
### A worrying observation
Kinshasa is an expanding city, with millions of inhabitants. This rapid population growth has direct consequences on infrastructure, in particular with regard to sanitation. According to studies carried out by local and international organizations, the city’s sanitation capacity is strongly insufficient, thus generating risks to public health and the environment. Indeed, the waste produced daily is far beyond the treatment capacities of the city, an observation which has repercussions not only on the cleanliness of the streets, but also on the quality of life of the inhabitants.
### An ambitious project
Directed by Junior Tchiteya, the “Suitable Kinshasa” project has several concrete actions, including the creation of a sustainable sanitation policy for Kinshasa (Padki) and the professionalization of players in the field. Fanny Salmon, deputy director general of C&S Expertise, stressed that sanitation is the second priority of the provincial government, after security. This prioritization of priorities could make it possible to really focus on systematic actions.
Confirmation of the international conference “Sanit Kinshasa”, scheduled for September 16 to 20, 2025, appears as a key moment. It should open a space for discussion between the public and private sector, as well as local actors, to launch sustainable and economic projects related to sanitation. This consultation format could contribute to establishing common fields of action, or even drawing a long -term strategy.
### An essential consultation framework
The consultation framework set up thanks to this project seems more than a simple meeting of actors. It is perceived as a real step towards the creation of sustainable partnerships. This type of dialogue is essential to understand the complex challenges posed by waste management in Kinshasa. Indeed, it should not be neglected that many actors, both public and private, have an influence on the question of sanitation. Engaging these stakeholders in a constructive dialogue could make it possible to design solutions that are not content to be reactive, but which are also proactive.
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Despite the displayed ambitions, the implementation of a project of such a scale will not only require adequate funding, but also an awareness of the populations concerned. The social, economic and cultural challenges linked to sanitation are just as crucial. The involvement of local communities in discussions is essential to guarantee membership of the solutions proposed.
In addition, the support of international partners, such as the Embassy of the Netherlands, underlines the importance of external collaborations within the framework of this project. However, how can we ensure that foreign interventions are really aligned with local needs? This questioning is of capital importance for the effectiveness of sanitation projects.
### Conclusion and perspectives
The “Sanit Kinshasa” project raises many questions about the management of sanitation in Kinshasa and beyond, throughout the Democratic Republic of Congo. If he has hope, his success will clearly depend on the ability of the various stakeholders to work together towards a common objective. The vigilance of local actors, the mobilization of resources, and the commitment of populations are all elements that will determine the sustainability of the solutions put in place. This calls for a collective and shared reflection, an essential condition for the successful sanitation of one of the largest cities in Africa.
Ultimately, the “Sanit Kinshasa” initiative could represent a model to follow for other cities faced with similar challenges, provided that learned lessons are well integrated into this process.