## Floods in Kinshasa: a cry of alarm for the population of Ndanu
On April 12, 2025, Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, continued to face the dramatic consequences of the heavy rains which took place a week earlier. The Ndanu district, located in the commune of Limete, is particularly affected, leaving its inhabitants in a precarious situation. The floods, which caused the death of 43 people and considerable material damage, raise crucial issues on natural risk management and urban resilience.
### Difficult daily reality
In the Ndanu district, families like that of Joël Hongo tragically illustrate the effects of this disaster. Movements become risky, requiring the wearing of boots, while the streets are still invaded by rainwater. The dwellings are devastated: destroyed furniture, ruined electronic devices and water documents impregnated with water. The situation is aggravated for those who do not have access to a floor to take refuge. Many residents have to face the harsh reality to sleep under the stars, without drinking water or electricity.
This humanitarian crisis highlights the need for an immediate and targeted response. Calls for emergency intervention are increasing, but these situations also raise questions about the preparation of the authorities in the face of such events.
### Urbanization and climate challenges
The floods in Kinshasa are not an isolated phenomenon. They occur in a context of rapid urbanization and often unsuitable regional planning. The city, which undergoes increasing demographic pressure, struggles to develop robust infrastructure to manage rainwater. Observesters point out that sustainable and long -term solutions are crucial to preventing such disasters in the future. Reflection on town planning must integrate effective drainage strategies and the preservation of wetlands, which play a vital role in the absorption of rainwater.
### The need for an integrated approach
This situation calls for an integrated approach, which combines both short -term measures, such as providing humanitarian aid, and long -term solutions to improve the resilience of vulnerable neighborhoods. Authorities must consider the importance of an early alert system in the event of heavy rain and promote infrastructure projects adapted to the climate. Community initiatives, involving residents in risk management, can also play a key role in awareness and prevention.
### Reflection on responsibility
Recent floods should not only be seen from the angle of natural disasters. They also imply a reflection on the responsibility of the various entities, whether government or private, in the management of town planning and water resources. What is the place of civil society in this process? How can companies contribute to sustainable infrastructure projects?
This tragic event highlights the importance of collective work to build urban environments even in the face of the unpredictability of the climate. The resilience of neighborhoods like Ndanu will depend on the commitment of communities, authorities and donors to mobilize the resources necessary for sustainable transformation.
### Conclusion
The floods in Kinshasa show once again that the fight against environmental disasters requires concerted and thoughtful action. It is essential to learn from these tragic events to strengthen infrastructure and improve the quality of life of citizens. The inhabitants of Ndanu deserve a future where they will no longer be at the mercy of climatic whims. It is a collective responsibility which calls for an awakening of consciences and actions. Beyond the urgency of humanitarian assistance, it is towards a lasting change that must now be worked.