A catastrophic humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the Democratic Republic of Congo after torrential rains triggered devastating floods and landslides, claiming the lives of more than 200 people, according to a dire report from Save the Children.
The disaster struck the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi in the eastern South Kivu province, sweeping away homes, schools, and vital infrastructure in the dead of night. The international charity confirmed that at least 203 people have been killed, including dozens of children, with many more still missing and feared dead.
A Community Buried and Washed Away
Rescue efforts are hampered by destroyed roads and bridges, leaving communities isolated. Survivors are facing a desperate situation, with many having lost everything. "The scale of the destruction is horrific," a Save the Children spokesperson stated. "Homes have been buried, and essential services we all rely on have been wiped out in an instant."
International Response and Urgent Needs
The Congolese government has declared a day of national mourning. While the United States embassy in Kinshasa has announced an immediate allocation of $50,000 for relief supplies, the need is immense. The most urgent requirements include:
- Emergency shelter and non-food items for displaced families
- Clean water and sanitation facilities to prevent disease outbreaks
- Medical supplies to treat the injured
- Psychosocial support for traumatised survivors, especially children
This tragedy underscores the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in the region, linked by many to the broader global climate crisis.
