Fatshimetry
The issue of access to drinking water is a major concern in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. With increasing difficulties in the distribution of drinking water by public services, many residents are turning to water boreholes as an alternative solution. Formerly limited to outlying neighborhoods, these wells are now multiplying throughout the city, becoming an essential source for many households.
In plots scattered across Kinshasa, residents exploit groundwater to meet their daily water needs. Some even go so far as to sell this precious resource to their neighbors, creating a new informal water market. The price of a 25 liter container can reach 100 Congolese Francs, or even more, demonstrating the value of this essential resource for life.
However, the development of a water borehole should not be taken lightly. It is essential to comply with construction and quality standards to guarantee the supply of drinking water and ensure the sustainability of the source. Failure to comply with these standards can have disastrous consequences on the health of residents and the environment.
To discuss it in more depth, Jody Nkashama interviewed Professor Antoine Mfumu, expert in hydrology, as part of the program “Fatshimetrie”. Together, they addressed the issues related to non-compliance with construction standards for water boreholes and the potential consequences on the population.
In conclusion, the issue of access to drinking water in Kinshasa is complex and requires an integrated approach to guarantee the safety and health of residents. Water boreholes can play a crucial role in meeting water needs, but it is essential to ensure that they are constructed and maintained properly, meeting quality standards. This is a major challenge that the city of Kinshasa must face, but it is also an opportunity to develop sustainable solutions to ensure access to a vital resource for all.