### An energy and health crisis in Kalemie: issues and consequences
The city of Kalemie, located in the province of Tanganyika in the Democratic Republic of Congo, faces a significant crisis. Since last Friday, it has been plunged into darkness due to a major breakdown at the Bendera hydroelectric power station, as reported by the National Electricity Company (SNEL). This prolonged interruption of the power supply has repercussions in several sectors of daily life, questioning the resilience of infrastructure and public services.
#### Impact on drinking water service
One of the most worrying effects of this breakdown is the paralysis of the water distribution control (REGIDESO), which raises serious concerns about access to drinking water. In a context where the cholera epidemic experienced an upsurge in the region, many residents turn to Lake Tanganyika and Lukuga river water, sources that do not guarantee health security. Nathan MUGISHO, president of the Umoja ni NGUVU association, stresses that the situation could worsen the current health crisis, to weigh an increased risk of water -borne diseases.
The use of these untreated sources of water for daily needs such as laundry and dishes, as reported by several residents, testifies to the precariousness in which these populations find themselves. In this context, it is essential to ask the question of the management of basic needs in crisis situations. How can REGIDESO, as well as local authorities, anticipate these interruptions and guarantee continuous access to drinking water, which is a fundamental right?
#### Economic repercussions
Beyond health concerns, the electricity cut heavily impacts Kalemie’s economic activity. Traders, especially those of cold drinks, are particularly affected. One of them told Fatshimetrics that sales, which normally reached four to five energy boxes a day, cannot even reach a single box currently. This situation poses a challenge not only for small entrepreneurs, but it also has an impact on the employment and purchasing power of families.
Hairdressing salons, welding and carpentry workshops, as well as other businesses, are stopped. Even simple gestures like recharging mobile phones have turned into real events for the inhabitants. Through this dynamic, it is relevant to question the support measures put in place in the face of recurring electricity cutting phenomena, which already amplify the vulnerability of local populations.
#### What solutions to consider?
The situation in Kalemie raises an urgent need for sustainable solutions. This could pass, for example, through investments in resilient infrastructure and a diversification of energy sources. Renewable energies, such as solar energy, could offer an alternative to dependence on hydroelectric power plants, often vulnerable to technical breakdowns.
In addition, the strengthening of cooperation between public and private actors, as well as with non -governmental organizations, could improve the management of water resources, especially during periods of crisis. Population awareness of drinking water management in moments of shortage would also be crucial to minimize health risks.
Finally, it would be relevant that political decision -makers, in collaboration with local actors, adopt a proactive approach in the planning of essential services, thus guaranteeing more suitable responses in the event of a crisis.
#### Conclusion
This crisis in Kalemie illustrates how the energy, health and economic issues are interconnected. The consequences of a problem are often exacerbated by the fragility of infrastructure and the absence of suitable solutions. Faced with this complex situation, it is essential to encourage a constructive dialogue between the various actors concerned, in order to build solid foundations for the future of the city and its inhabitants. This implies not only to meet immediate needs, but also to think of long -term solutions that will secure the daily life of Kalemiens, thus making it possible to preserve their dignity and their health.