In the heart of Lubefu territory, a humanitarian tragedy unfolded last week, leaving more than seven hundred households in total disarray. The bushfires mercilessly devastated more than three hundred houses in seven villages, plunging hundreds of families into inhumane living conditions.
The assistant territory administrator, Pierre Djoko Otshudi, testifies to the tragedy that struck these communities, emphasizing that the scale of the damage is heartbreaking. The devouring flames reduced to ashes 215 houses in Makadi, 115 in Osenge, 152 in Minga, 92 in Asekokalo, 117 in Djalo, and 36 at the Catholic mission of Lubefu. These chilling figures reflect the distress of residents who find themselves without shelter or resources.
The affected families are now living in extremely precarious conditions, taking refuge in the surrounding nature and trying to find help from neighboring villages. National MP Hyppolite Djate, elected from Lubefu, launched an urgent appeal to the Ministry of Social Affairs to organize emergency humanitarian assistance. He also insists on the need to put in place concrete measures to rehouse the victims, rebuild schools and health centers destroyed by the flames.
Beyond the material losses, an entire social fabric was broken by these devastating fires. Schools and health centers, essential pillars of the community, were also affected, suggesting dramatic consequences for the future of the region.
Faced with this humanitarian crisis, a collective and coordinated response is required. It is imperative to provide immediate assistance to affected families, but also to put in place long-term measures to rebuild and strengthen the resilience of these vulnerable communities.
In this dark time, solidarity and mutual aid must guide our actions to help the victims of Lubefu and allow them to rebuild after this unprecedented disaster. Reconstruction is not limited to buildings, but extends to rebuilding the lives and hopes shattered by the flames.