Tragedy Strikes Kasaba: Initial Assessment Reveals Grim Reality

The Kasaba region, located within the Fizi territory of South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, is grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding that occurred between May 8th and 9th. Initial reports indicate a important loss of life and widespread damage to property, prompting urgent calls for national assistance.

Casualties and Injuries Mount as Rescue Efforts Continue

according to Akili Bernard, the sector manager of Ngandja, the current count stands at ten confirmed fatalities. In addition to the tragic loss of life, approximately thirty individuals sustained injuries and have been transported to the Yungu health center for medical treatment. The full extent of the disaster is still unfolding as search and rescue operations continue.

We have with local efforts, recovered 10 lifeless bodies, 30 people injured, already evacuated to the Yungu health center, there are barely 45 homes identified until this moment,

Akili Bernard, Ngandja Sector manager

Homes Destroyed, Communities Displaced

The torrential rains caused the Kasaba River and Lake Tanganyika to overflow, resulting in the destruction of at least 45 homes and impacting over 70 dwellings. The scale of the devastation has left many families displaced and in urgent need of shelter, food, and clean water. The local chief and civil society organizations are actively involved in ongoing search and rescue efforts, working tirelessly to locate missing persons and provide aid to those affected.

Urgent Appeal for national Goverment Intervention

Local authorities are urgently appealing to the national government for immediate assistance. The resources available at the local level are insufficient to address the scale of the crisis, and external support is crucial to provide adequate relief and support to the affected communities. The appeal underscores the need for a coordinated response to ensure that the victims of the floods receive the necessary aid and assistance to rebuild their lives.

May National Government come to the aid because they are Congolese like all the others,

Akili Bernard,Ngandja Sector Manager

The Broader Context: Flooding in the DRC

This recent flooding event highlights the increasing vulnerability of communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo to natural disasters. According to a 2024 report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian affairs (OCHA), flooding is a recurring problem in the DRC, often exacerbated by poor infrastructure and inadequate disaster preparedness measures. The report emphasizes the need for increased investment in flood mitigation strategies and early warning systems to protect vulnerable populations.