### Lubumbashi: a public health and urban development effort
On May 16, 2025, the city of Lubumbashi had a day of concerted action for sanitation, orchestrated by its mayor, Patrick Kafwimbi Mumamba. This type of initiatives, although seen as necessary, raises broader questions about the management of urban services in a context where rapid urbanization and the engorgement of infrastructure weigh more and more on communities.
#### An alarming observation
The presence of filth in neighborhoods like Matshipicha and Kamalondo illustrates a worrying reality. Pollution, in all its forms, could have consequences on public health. Undeunted trash can not only promote the proliferation of diseases, but also aggravate situations of unsanitary conditions which directly affect the living conditions of the inhabitants. In this sense, the evacuation of garbage cannot be perceived as a simple punctual operation, but rather as an imperative necessity with regard to health standards.
#### Communal commitment and involvement of citizens
Sanitation activities, at first glance, seem to respond to a desire to revitalize the image of the neighborhoods. The positive feedback from residents, mentioned during this intervention, testify to a pressing need for action and recognition. However, the duration of this enthusiasm will depend on the sustainability of the efforts made. One question remains: how to guarantee that these cleaning initiatives are not isolated actions, but are part of a dynamic of sustainable development and citizen participation?
Finally, the mayor’s commitment and the supervision of local mayor highlight the importance of decentralized governance. This type of approach anchors decisions as close as possible to the concerns of citizens. However, this also requires that these agents of authority can have the resources and support necessary to carry out their missions.
#### Urban mobility challenges
During his visit, Patrick Kafwimbi Mumamba also mentioned the behavior of motorcyclists and public transport drivers, calling for compliance with operating perimeters. This raises a fundamental issue: the regulation of urban mobility in the face of the increase in the number of vehicles and informal transport practices.
The question of regulation is therefore crucial. In a city in full expansion, how to take into account the various actors – from users to authorities, including transport companies? It is essential to establish a dialogue promoting adapted solutions, avoiding both anarchy and rigidity which may demotivate those which depend on these transport systems for their subsistence.
#### to an inclusive development model
This moment of sanitation in the city of Lubumbashi can be perceived as an opportunity to initiate a broader reflection on urban management. The question of the environment and public health must be integrated into a broader framework of urban development which celebrates the inclusion of the various community actors.
Local authorities, in collaboration with NGOs, experts and citizens themselves, could consider awareness programs on the importance of responsible sharing of urban spaces. This will also involve investments in waste management infrastructure and communication efforts on best practices.
#### Conclusion
Sanitation efforts in Lubumbashi are much more than just cleaning operation. They represent a crucial step in the quest for a more durable and pleasant city to live. Through this dynamic, the question arises on the future of public policies in environmental and transport, but also on the role of citizens in this evolution. This is an opportunity to evaluate and renew commitments of both the authorities and the communities, in order to build a city that combines comfort, respect for the environment and social decorum.
In short, the continuation of this collective commitment will be decisive for the future of Lubumbashi, which aspires to become a model metropolis in public health and urban development.