In brief
Recent floods in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, have led to the deaths of at least 33 people, with many more affected as residents struggle to escape rising waters. President Félix Tshisekedi has pledged support, while officials warn of worsening climate issues and further rain ahead.
Torrential rains and severe flooding have wreaked havoc in Kinshasa, the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in at least 33 confirmed deaths, according to local authorities. President Félix Tshisekedi, expressing solidarity with victims, declared a government crisis meeting on Monday, pledging that the republic would not abandon those affected. Residents, caught in the deluge, are attempting to escape floodwaters by wading, swimming, or using makeshift canoes. Kinshasa, home to around 17 million residents, is situated alongside the Congo River, one of the largest rivers globally, which has recently reached its highest levels in sixty years. The capital is particularly vulnerable to flooding, with soil erosion exacerbated by the ongoing climate crisis, as highlighted by the president himself. The flooding destructively impacted many homes in west Kinshasa, particularly on the nights from Friday into Saturday. Reports indicate that approximately half of the city's 26 districts have been affected, prompting search and rescue operations. Among those hardest hit are the city's outskirts and impoverished neighborhoods. "The water has reached 1.5 meters high. We barely managed to save ourselves; the rest is trapped inside," said resident Christophe Bola from the Ndanu area. Residents have voiced their frustration toward authorities, accusing them of being slow to respond and insufficiently aiding those in need during this crisis. With the floods causing significant disruptions, residents throughout Kinshasa face acute water shortages, as treatment pumps have been inundated. Critical transport routes connecting the city to its international airport and the primary seaport, Matadi, are rendered impassable. The N’djili River, a local tributary of the Congo, has overflowed, trapping many in its wake, according to Deputy President Jacquemain Shabani. This river is known for its high pollution levels, carrying sewage and waste due to poor maintenance and lack of effective town planning in the capital. The government had previously announced initiatives to address these persistent issues. Forecasts indicate that heavy rainfall is expected to continue in Kinshasa and in other regions of the country, including Goma, recently overtaken by rebel forces. The national meteorological agency has warned of severe weather patterns across the north and northeast, raising concerns about further flooding and related disasters.
