Officials report that torrential rains and subsequent flooding in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, have resulted in the deaths of at least 33 individuals.
President Félix Tshisekedi assured victims on Monday, “The republic will not abandon you,” following his decision to convene a government crisis meeting.
Residents in dire circumstances attempt to escape the rising floodwaters, navigating their way to safety by wading, swimming, or using makeshift canoes.
The city, with a population of 17 million, is situated along the Congo River, one of the largest rivers globally, which flows through the nation.
Recent flooding has become a significant concern, with the river reaching its highest level in sixty years.
Certain areas of the capital are increasingly vulnerable to soil erosion. In recent years, the president of the Democratic Republic of Congo has issued warnings that the climate crisis is exacerbating flooding conditions.
In west Kinshasa, numerous homes were devastated as flooding occurred overnight from Friday into Saturday.
As reported by the mayor, approximately half of the city’s 26 districts are impacted. He confirmed that search and rescue teams have been deployed to assist in the affected areas.
The city’s outskirts and most impoverished neighborhoods are experiencing the most severe impact.
The water level has risen to 1.5 meters. “We have just managed to save ourselves; the rest is trapped in our homes,” said Christophe Bola, a resident of the Ndanu area, in an interview with the AFP news agency.
Residents have frustrated reporters, criticizing the authorities for their slow response and insufficient assistance.
The recent floods have resulted in significant water shortages for residents throughout Kinshasa, as the rising waters overwhelmed the city’s water treatment pumps.
The city’s main thoroughfare, linking the downtown area to the international airport, has become impassable. Additionally, portions of the motorway connecting the capital to Matadi, the nation’s primary port, are obstructed.
Deputy President Jacquemain Shabani reported on Sunday that the N’djili River, a tributary of the Congo River, has overflowed its banks, leaving numerous residents trapped in the area.
Reports indicate that this river is among the most polluted in the region, with Congolese scientists highlighting concerning levels of fecal matter and various other contaminants.
The sewage maintenance in numerous regions of Kinshasa is inadequate, and there appears to be a lack of effective town planning.
The government revealed its intentions to address this persistent issue last year in a significant move.
Kinshasa is bracing for additional heavy rainfall in the weeks ahead. At the same time, the eastern city of Goma, which fell under rebel control earlier this year, is also anticipated to experience similar weather conditions.
The National Meteorological Agency has warned about heavy rainfall in various regions, particularly in the northern and northeastern parts of the country.
