Flooding in Central Congo claims the lives of at least 22 individuals – local official

At least 22 individuals, including 10 members of a single family, lost their lives due to flooding caused by heavy rainfall in central Congo, according to a local official.

The district of Kananga in Kasai Central province experienced hours of continuous rain, resulting in the destruction of numerous houses and structures.

As rescue operations intensified to find survivors, the governor of the province, John Kabeya, confirmed an additional five deaths, bringing the total death toll to 17. Kabeya stated that the collapse of a wall claimed the lives of the 10 family members in Bikuku.

The flooding also caused significant material damage, as reported by Nathalie Kambala, the country director of The Hand in Hand for Integral Development NGO.

Flooding caused by heavy rainfall is a recurring issue in various parts of Congo, particularly in remote areas.

In May, torrential rains in eastern Congo’s South Kivu province resulted in over 400 fatalities due to floods and landslides.

The recent flooding in Kananga damaged several structures, including the Higher Institute of Technology of Kananga, a church, and a major road that was cut off. Governor Kabeya emphasized the need for urgent assistance from the national government.

Furthermore, heavy rains triggered a landslide in eastern Congo on Sunday night, leading to the death of at least four individuals, while 20 others remain missing.