Fatshimetrie, edition of November 8, 2024 – The rain that fell on the city of Kinshasa left traces of significant destruction in the neighborhoods of Cité verte and Ngafani, located in the commune of Selembao. The inhabitants suffered significant material damage, particularly with the progression of erosion that threatens By-pass Avenue at the Quado stop in the Ngafani neighborhood.
The mayor of Selembao, Matthias Womumu, confirmed this damage, stressing that the second alley of Cité verte was also affected by the flow of rainwater. To counter this worrying situation, urgent measures have been taken, such as the deployment of machinery to begin the construction of a new collector to drain rainwater and prevent the progression of erosion.
However, these problems are not limited to Selembao. Erosion heads were also reported in the Bianda and Tshibanda neighborhoods in the Mont-Ngafula commune after the storms. This situation highlights the urgency of collective action to address the consequences of heavy rains and limit material damage.
It is imperative to put in place effective measures to prevent such disasters in the future. The construction of storm drains and the implementation of land use planning projects will be essential to protect residents and their property from the adverse effects of storms.
It is also crucial to raise awareness among the population on storm water management and good environmental practices to limit the risks of erosion and associated damage. Local and national authorities must work together to implement sustainable initiatives to strengthen the resilience of neighborhoods most exposed to storms.
In conclusion, the recent floods in Kinshasa highlight the fragility of our infrastructure in the face of climate hazards. It is time to act proactively to protect our communities and cities from growing natural and climate risks.