Death Toll from Flooding in Kinshasa, DRC Reaches 33 Amid Evacuations

Flooding in Kinshasa has resulted in 33 confirmed deaths, with continuing evacuations of families. Heavy rains caused the Ndjili River to overflow, submerging buildings and damaging infrastructure. Frustration among residents is evident due to the perceived slow government response, and access to clean drinking water is hampered in several areas.

The flood disaster in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in a death toll of 33, with continued efforts to evacuate hundreds of families trapped in inundated homes. Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemin Shabani confirmed the death of ten additional individuals following a prior toll of 23. Heavy rains that began last week led to the overflow of the Ndjili River, which submerged numerous properties throughout the city.

Although conditions in Kinshasa showed signs of improvement by Monday morning, several access roads remained obstructed, resulting in limited traffic flow. A significant number of residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the disaster. “We lost everything and left everything behind,” stated Marie Nzola, a victim of the flooding.

Officials have indicated that many fatalities stemmed from collapsing walls shortly after the flooding commenced. The primary road to the airport, also a critical link for the city, sustained damage but is expected to reopen to traffic within 72 hours, according to Kinshasa Governor Daniel Bumba.

The flooding has compromised access to clean drinking water in at least 16 communes due to damage to water facilities. In response, the government has established a minimum of four emergency shelters to accommodate hundreds of displaced individuals. Clement Matwidi, a resident affected by the catastrophe, voiced his frustrations, urging the government for increased support.

Similar flooding in 2022 resulted in the deaths of at least 100 individuals, highlighting the vulnerability of Kinshasa to such disasters. This incident occurs amidst the government’s struggle with a humanitarian crisis in the eastern region of the country, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts with rebels, further complicating the situation.

In summary, the flooding in Kinshasa has resulted in significant loss of life and property, with many residents feeling abandoned by the government. Despite some improvements in conditions, the aftermath continues to pose serious challenges, including damaged infrastructure and compromised access to essential services. The government is taking steps to address these issues, but community members are calling for more urgent assistance.

Original Source: www.breakingnews.ie