In the peaceful city of Kisangani, in the heart of Tshopo province, a series of thefts of electric cables recently shook the Société Nationale d’Electricité (SNEL). The inhabitants of the commune of Makiso were plunged into darkness following the theft of more than 400 meters of electric cable on Munyororo Avenue. A tragic act that compromised the power supply to the street lights connecting the ANR roundabout to the UNIKIS administrative building.
The technical director of SNEL Kisangani, Jean-Claude Liandja, expressed his deep concern about this sad event. “It is deplorable,” he said, stressing the negative impact of these thefts on the projects to extend the electricity network in the region. The consequences are not only financial, but also logistical, because each cable theft represents a setback in the efforts made to provide adequate public lighting to the population.
This is not the first time that such acts of vandalism have occurred in the region. Meters of cable have also been stolen in Lubunga and street lights have been the target of repeated thefts. These incidents highlight the need to strengthen the security of electrical infrastructure and raise awareness among the population on the protection of public property.
Despite these challenges, SNEL continues its efforts to improve public lighting in the city of Kisangani. Recently, the company invested in the acquisition of three 60 kVA generators to strengthen its power supply capacities. A significant step forward that could be compromised if the acts of theft are not effectively resolved.
In conclusion, these incidents of theft of electrical cables in Kisangani highlight the importance of the security of electrical infrastructure and the protection of public property. Collaboration between local authorities, law enforcement and the community is essential to prevent such acts of vandalism and ensure a reliable and continuous electricity supply for all inhabitants of the region.
This story, marked by resilience and determination, illustrates the need for collective action to overcome challenges and build a bright future for Kisangani and its inhabitants.