DR Congo floods kill 72, thousands left homeless; Kinshasa among worst affected

Kinshasa: Heavy rainfall and widespread flooding have affected multiple provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with the capital city, Kinshasa, facing some of the most severe impacts, the Ministry of Health has confirmed.

According to the latest reports, 11 health zones in Kinshasa have been affected. More than 5,000 people have been forced from their homes, while at least 72 lives have been lost and 170 individuals have sustained injuries due to the relentless downpour and subsequent flooding, Xinhua news agency reported.

Eastern provinces also affected

The eastern provinces of Tanganyika and South Kivu have also experienced considerable damage. Local officials are continuing efforts to evaluate the full scale of the humanitarian crisis and determine urgent needs.

Emergency response underway

To support those affected in Kinshasa, emergency shelters and medical care centres have been set up in various stadiums across the city. However, the country's largest venue, Stade des Martyrs, is already sheltering more than 4,500 displaced people. Authorities have launched a decongestion plan to relocate residents to other facilities.

Government vows coordinated action

The Ministry of Health has reiterated its dedication to improving coordination across sectors to deliver timely and efficient responses to both health and humanitarian emergencies.

More rain forecast

With the rainy season in the DRC lasting from November to May, forecasts predict continued heavy rainfall in the days ahead. There is growing concern about further damage in Kinshasa, a city of 17 million that remains highly susceptible due to unregulated and rapid urban growth.

IANS