Chaos in DR Congo: Flooding Wreaks Havoc in Kinshasa Capital

Floods wreak havoc in Kinshasa, the capital city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as water inundates homes and residents navigate the waterlogged streets by boat. The Congo River, which runs through the country, has also overflowed, leading to flooding in areas outside of the capital. This historic river has now reached its highest level in over six decades, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.

According to officials, the floods have claimed the lives of more than 300 people in recent months. The residents of Kinshasa, already grappling with poverty, have witnessed the destruction of schools, hospitals, and churches due to the flooding. The city is crisscrossed by numerous small rivers and streams, many of which serve as open sewers. These waterways have now burst their banks, exacerbating the situation.

In the midst of this disaster, one brave man wades through waist-deep water on a flooded street, towing a canoe packed with passengers behind him. Trucks cautiously navigate the treacherous waters, while discarded bottles float on the surface. The RVF, responsible for managing DR Congo’s waterways, issued an alert in late December, warning of the impending “exceptional flooding” in the Kinshasa area due to heavy rains. Other provinces, such as Mongala and Ituri, had already experienced severe flooding by that time.

Flooding is not uncommon in Kinshasa, but this year the Congo River has risen to almost 6.26 meters, just shy of the level reached during the record-breaking floods of 1961. The situation is equally dire upstream in the city of Kisangani, where the mayor reports that over 200 houses have been submerged. The impact of the Congo River’s flooding extends beyond the borders of the DR Congo, affecting Congo-Brazzaville as well. The World Health Organization reveals that more than 336,000 people and 34 health facilities have been affected by flooding in that neighboring nation.

While several factors contribute to flooding, climate change plays a significant role in exacerbating the situation. A warming atmosphere increases the likelihood of extreme rainfall, leading to more frequent and severe floods. Just over a year ago, Kinshasa experienced devastating floods that claimed the lives of over 120 people. The recurrent nature of these disasters highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to mitigate the impact of flooding and address the underlying causes.

In conclusion, the recent floods in Kinshasa and the surrounding areas have caused immense devastation and loss of life. The overflowing Congo River, along with heavy rains and poor infrastructure, has led to the inundation of homes, destruction of vital infrastructure, and displacement of thousands of people. As climate change continues to worsen, it is crucial for both local and international authorities to take immediate action to prevent future disasters and ensure the safety and well-being of the affected communities..