Fatshimetrie: Tragic shipwreck on the Kwa River in DRC shocks the nation
The Democratic Republic of Congo was rocked by a tragic event last week, when a shipwreck claimed the lives of nearly 100 passengers on the Kwa River, near Kinshasa. The accident occurred in the province of Maï-Ndombe, in the territory of Mushie, leaving floating bodies in a state of decomposition, some even stranding as far as Kinshasa. This disaster sparked a wave of emotions and criticism regarding the response of the authorities and the relief efforts on site.
Faced with the absence of state intervention, it was the foundation of a local deputy who took the lead in providing aid to the disaster-stricken region. National MP Freddy Bonweke, elected for Mushie, expressed concern about the scale of the disaster and the need for immediate action to help victims and their families. His poignant testimony highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for a rapid and coordinated response.
This accident is a reminder of the challenges facing the DRC in terms of safety and regulation of river transport. Despite efforts to improve boat travel safety in recent years, tragic incidents like this still occur, highlighting persistent gaps in the control and monitoring system.
As a nation in mourning, the DRC must now mobilize to support the families of the victims, investigate the circumstances of this shipwreck and take measures to prevent such disasters in the future. Solidarity and compassion are essential in such situations, and it is imperative that authorities and the international community come together to overcome this tragedy and protect the lives of all those who use the country’s waterways.
This shipwreck on the Kwa River will remain etched in the collective memory of the DRC, reminding us of the fragility of human life and the importance of maritime security. In this dark time, let us show solidarity and empathy with the victims and their loved ones, and commit to working together to prevent such tragedies from happening again in the future.