22 Killed by Floods in DRC: At least 22 people were killed by floods in DRC‘s capital city, Kinshasa, after relentless rains pounded the region over the weekend, causing the Ndjili River to overflow and triggering widespread destruction.
The fatalities were confirmed by Kinshasa Governor Daniel Bumba during a press briefing on Sunday.
The torrential downpour, which began late Friday night and continued into Saturday, led to the collapse of several walls and homes, with many residents caught off guard by the rapidly rising waters. Most of the deaths were attributed to drowning or wall collapses in the hardest-hit areas.
“This is a tragedy for Kinshasa. Preliminary reports confirm that 22 people were killed and many others injured. Emergency evacuations are still underway,” Governor Bumba said.
Wall Collapses and Landslides Among Deadliest Incidents
According to local officials, some of the most tragic scenes unfolded in Matadi Kibala, where six members of a single family were crushed when a wall gave way and collapsed onto their home during the night.
Bumba explained that landslides also worsened the situation, displacing dozens of residents and destroying critical infrastructure. He emphasized that several communes remain in a state of emergency and urged people living near riverbanks and unstable terrain to seek shelter in safer areas.
“Authorities are working around the clock to assess the damage, rescue those trapped, and restore essential services,” he said.
DRC’s Flooding Crisis: A Recurring Nightmare
The 22 killed by floods in DRC this weekend highlight a recurring pattern of climate-related disasters in Kinshasa. In 2022, nearly 100 people were killed during similar floods in the capital. Experts say poor urban planning, blocked drainage systems, and unregulated construction in flood-prone zones are major contributing factors to the city’s vulnerability.
“The frequency and severity of these floods are increasing,” said urban planner Jean Mvuala. “Kinshasa needs a long-term infrastructure overhaul to prevent such tragedies from happening every rainy season.”
Government Vows Emergency Response After 22 Killed by Floods in DRC
In response to the disaster, DRC government spokesman Patrick Muyaya posted on X (formerly Twitter) that both national and provincial authorities were mobilizing resources to provide aid to those affected.
“The central and provincial governments are coordinating emergency responses and offering support to the victims’ families,” Muyaya stated. “We stand in solidarity with the people of Kinshasa.”
Governor Bumba also announced that rapid-response teams have been deployed to unblock drainage channels, assist displaced residents, and reopen critical transport routes affected by the flooding.
Airport Access Road Submerged but Repairs Underway
One of the most immediate infrastructure casualties was the main road leading to N’djili International Airport, which was submerged during the peak of the flooding. Authorities have pledged to restore access within 72 hours, citing the road as a lifeline for both emergency services and commercial activities.
“The damage is significant, but we are prioritizing reopening that route to avoid further disruptions,” Bumba said.
Residents have voiced frustrations over the lack of preparedness, with many saying the city’s drainage systems were clogged before the rains began.
Residents Mourn Loved Ones After 22 Killed by Floods in DRC
Tearful scenes played out in neighborhoods like Masina, Ngaba, and Selembao, where families struggled to retrieve bodies buried under debris or swept away by the floodwaters.
“My brother was swept away while trying to rescue his wife and children,” said Jonas Ilunga, a resident of Masina. “His body was found kilometers downstream. We are devastated.”
Many survivors are now sheltering in temporary accommodations provided by humanitarian organizations and local churches. Food, water, and medical aid are in high demand as families try to recover from the shock.
Climate Change and Infrastructure Challenges Under Scrutiny
The tragedy has reignited calls for improved urban planning and stronger climate resilience measures in the capital. Experts warn that with increasing rainfall due to climate change, without strategic intervention, disasters like the one that killed 22 in DRC will only become more frequent.
“There needs to be a complete rethink of how we develop cities in high-risk areas,” said environmental scientist Dr. Mireille Tshilombo. “We cannot continue building in floodplains and expect a different outcome.”
Looking Ahead: Preventing More Deaths After 22 Killed by Floods in DRC
As Kinshasa mourns the 22 lives lost, the pressure is now on authorities to act decisively. Civil society groups have demanded accountability and long-term action plans to protect vulnerable communities.
“We need more than condolences,” said activist Françoise Mutombo. “We need real investment in flood defenses, housing safety, and public awareness campaigns.”
Meanwhile, search and recovery operations continue, with the death toll potentially rising as more areas become accessible.
