Fizi Territory submerged as deadly floods destroy homes, trigger disease fears amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis
More than 100 people have been confirmed dead in the Fizi territory of South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, after torrential rains triggered catastrophic floods over the weekend. The relentless downpour began late Friday and continued through Saturday, submerging entire villages and wiping out homes.
According to local officials, flash floods devastated the Kasaba locality, destroying at least 150 houses, leaving hundreds homeless and entire families missing. The death toll, still provisional, is expected to rise as rescue operations continue in remote and inaccessible areas.
Fears Mount Over Health Crisis Amid Ongoing Rainfall
The provincial government has raised urgent concerns over waterborne diseases, respiratory infections, and malnutrition. Thousands have been displaced and are living without clean water or food, as the rains show no sign of stopping.
These floods are not just destroying homes they are creating a perfect storm for a public health disaster. Emergency medical aid and clean drinking water are critically needed.
Recurring Tragedy in a Fragile Landscape
Flooding is not new to the region. In 2023, a similar disaster killed 400 people in areas surrounding Lake Kivu, and just last month, floods claimed 33 lives in the capital city, Kinshasa.
Experts say deforestation on the steep surrounding hills has made the region more vulnerable to landslides and flash floods, especially during heavy rains. Climate change is also believed to be intensifying weather extremes in the Great Lakes region of eastern DR Congo.
Conflict Worsens the Humanitarian Emergency
As if the floods weren’t enough, ongoing armed conflict in eastern DR Congo continues to displace millions. Earlier this year, the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group launched a surprise offensive and captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu.
The Goma attack left nearly 3,000 people dead and almost 2,900 injured, further deepening what the United Nations has called one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with more than seven million people displaced nationwide.
Global Aid Urged as Region Faces Overlapping Disasters
With both natural disasters and armed conflict converging, South Kivu is facing a multi-layered humanitarian emergency. Local authorities and international organizations are calling for urgent support in the form of food, shelter, medical supplies, and disaster response teams.
The people of Fizi are mourning their dead, searching for the missing, and bracing for more rain. Their struggle is yet another painful reminder of the climate vulnerabilities and political instability gripping the heart of Africa.