President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo met with irate Kinshasa residents on Monday.
These individuals tragically lost their homes in devastating flash floods over the weekend. The floods have claimed the lives of at least 33 people in the capital city.
Kinshasa, situated along the Congo River, frequently experiences deadly flooding.
Poor infrastructure and neglected sewerage systems exacerbate the issue. Drainage pipes are often clogged with refuse in many of the city’s poorer areas.
Makeshift dwellings and unpaved streets leave vulnerable populations at heightened risk in the overcrowded metropolis of approximately 17 million people.
During his visit to a stadium sheltering around 600 displaced individuals, Tshisekedi faced harsh criticism.
One resident lamented, “Dad, you left your children in the street.” Another questioned his leadership, saying, “They call you a man of concrete but you’re not helping your people.”
The president also fielded questions regarding the city’s dilapidated infrastructure and sanitation.
Surrounded by members of the Republican Guard, Tshisekedi offered a brief message before departing.
“Stay healthy and may the Lord protect you,” he stated. The interior ministry reported at least 33 fatalities and about 50 hospitalizations from the recent flooding.
Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba indicated that approximately 5,000 families have been impacted.
While the waters that had submerged the main airport road receded, traffic was slowly beginning to resume on Monday.