### Reflection on town planning in Kinshasa: Jean Bamanisa Saïdi’s proposals
In a recent interview with Fatshimetrics, Jean Bamanisa Saïdi, former governor of Ituri and president of the organic organizing committee, has advanced proposals to reform the politico-administrative structure of Kinshasa. His statement echoes an pressing reality: the chronic traffic jam of the Congolese capital and the issues relating to urbanization and land management. In a country where natural disasters are increasing, it seems relevant to question the causes and potential solutions suggested.
### badly regulated urbanization
Jean Bamanisa insists that natural disasters are partly the result of an unatable urbanization policy. Indeed, Kinshasa is transformed with a speed which often exceeds the capacities of the existing infrastructures to be adjusted. According to some studies, the city welcomes nearly 14 million inhabitants, and many of them live in precarious conditions, often on poorly appropriate terrains. Land management, in this context, sets challenges that deserve special attention.
The expert also evokes the lack of awareness among the population concerning construction standards and regional planning. It is true that awareness -raising initiatives have been lacking in the past, thus contributing to urban disorder. Information campaigns on how to establish a sustainable built environment that could not only raise awareness, but also encourage collective awareness in the face of risks.
#### Reformation proposals
Bamanisa therefore calls for a reform of the politico-administrative structure of Kinshasa. This change could be perceived as an opportunity to improve urban management and fluidify traffic. A more effective administrative organization could, for example, delegate more powers to local entities, allowing better adaptation of public policies to the specific needs of city districts.
The traffic jams, indicators of poorly controlled urbanization, require solutions that transcend simple improvement in road infrastructure. A global reflection including green spaces, suitable public transport and pedestrian infrastructure could offer a more harmonious living environment, while supporting lasting mobility.
#### Awareness and education
In a context where education and awareness is highlighted, community initiatives can play a crucial role. Involving residents in planning and rehabilitation projects of public spaces could promote a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. Workshops on urban planning, the evolution of construction standards and the management of natural risks could also arouse a more marked interest in matters of sustainable development.
#### In conclusion
Jean Bamanisa Saïdi’s proposals raise a series of fundamental questions about how Kinshasa evolves in the face of these challenges. The need for political-administrative reorganization seems to be a rational response to traffic problems, but it is crucial not to neglect the human dimension of town planning. Awareness of the population, strengthening education and encouraging community participation constitute key elements to build more resilient and better organized capital.
Kinshasa, like many development metropolises, is at a crossroads. The policies implemented today will determine not only the quality of life of present generations, but also that of future generations. The way to a better structured and more sustainable kinshasa requires constructive discussions and a true commitment to all the actors concerned.