### Uvira, May 14, 2025: between mourning and reconstruction in the territory of Fizi
The tragic context of the floods that occurred on the night of May 9, 2025, which caused the death of 110 people in the Fizi region, raises strong emotions and questions about the measures taken by the provincial authorities. While South Kivu is experiencing major environmental challenges, the government’s reaction, illustrated by this visit announced in Yungu and Kasaba, deserves thoughtful analysis.
#### A context of crisis
Floods in the coastal areas of Lake Tanganyika do not represent an isolated event. They are part of a series of extreme climatic events which affect not only the Democratic Republic of Congo, but also many regions of the world. Climate change, deforestation and unplanned urbanization exacerbate the risk of disasters, highlighting the vulnerability of local populations.
The press release from the Administrator of the Territoire de Fizi, Mr. Samy Kalondji Badibanga, who calls for a warm welcome for the Provincial Government Delegation, is likely to restore a local link between the authorities and the population. However, the question that arises is whether such symbolic visits are enough to meet the real needs of the victims.
#### The scope of official visits
The visit of the vice-government and governor to the temporary worker, Mr. Jean Jacques Elakano, and the participation of the Archbishop of Uvira in the suffrage mass are gestures which reflect a desire for solidarity and comfort. However, these actions, although necessary, must be accompanied by concrete measures to support the economic and social recovery of the region, already fragile.
The planned ceremonies, such as the mortuary vigil and the meeting in return, can play a role in the process of collective mourning. But what will happen after these events? Victims and their families will need assistance structures, psychological care and, above all, material help to rebuild their lives. How do the authorities intend to make sure that the promises of support do not remain a dead letter?
### The role of infrastructure and prevention
The management of natural disasters requires a systemic approach which incorporates investments in infrastructure and prevention. The importance of having an early alert system, adequate roads, and robust health structures cannot be underestimated. Maintaining health infrastructure seems to be a central concern if the assistance announced at the local health center is considered. However, an audit of these infrastructures could reveal gaps to fill to better face the future.
In addition, the awareness of local populations to risk management could be reinforced. Education on behavior to be adopted in the event of floods could not only save lives, but also promote the resilience of communities in the face of crises.
#### Conclusion: Towards a shared responsibility
The current situation of Fizi is a poignant recall of the challenges facing many regions in the grip of environmental disasters. The reception of the government delegation is accompanied by collective responsibility, both the authorities and the citizens.
It is crucial that this visit and the speeches that surround it are not perceived as a simple formality, but rather as a starting point for a real commitment to reconstruction and solidarity. How can local authorities rely on this tragedy to establish sustainable prevention policies? How could the international community play a role in this reconstruction process?
These questions deserve to be asked and explored because they touch the heart of the resilience of a community in the face of adversity. Seeking significant responses to these challenges not only requires a political will, but also a collective effort to transform pain into strength and tragedy in the future.