Paper details
| Paper authors | BYA'UNDAOMBE LONGYE Jean-Paul and Shomari Kiete |
| In panel on | Responding to humanitarian crises in the context of the Democratic Republic of Congo and similar contexts |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
Responding to Humanitarian Crises in the DRC: Managing Natural Disasters in the Territories of Kalehe and Uvira (Eastern Region) The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to face recurring humanitarian crises triggered by natural disasters, particularly in its eastern region. This presentation focuses on the territories of Kalehe and Uvira, which were severely affected in 2023. In Kalehe, heavy rainfall between May 4 and 5 caused devastating mudslides in the health zones of Bushushu and Nyamukubi. The official toll was tragic: 438 deaths, over 5,000 missing persons, around 600 injured, and thousands displaced. More than 1,425 households were affected, with 425 homes destroyed in Bushushu and many more in Nyamukubi, forcing mass displacement of the local population. In Uvira, flooding and the rising waters of Lake Tanganyika resulted in 46 deaths and the destruction of nearly 15,000 homes. This disaster also had a significant humanitarian impact on the neighboring territory of Fizi, disrupting aid operations. These events highlight the urgent need to strengthen local capacities for disaster prevention, rapid response, and resilience. This analysis sheds light on the humanitarian challenges, the responses implemented, and the key areas for improvement to ensure more effective crisis management in the future.
