The Ngaba roundabout in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a scene of utter chaos. Located at the intersection of By-Pass and Université avenues, this critical junction is plagued by incessant honking, verbal spats between drivers, and pedestrians struggling to navigate the lack of sidewalks. The area is a mess, with no regard for basic traffic rules, and pedestrians finding it difficult to cross the road.
The roundabout's condition is exacerbated by a station-service that occupies a significant portion of the intersection, further narrowing the already congested road. The situation is worsened by makeshift parking lots for motorcycles, taxis, and taxi-buses, which clog the road and create gridlock. Despite efforts by two military police officers to restore order, the situation remains dire.
Pirate markets have sprung up on either side of the roundabout, with vendors selling a variety of goods, including spices, vegetables, shoes, and more. This is in defiance of a 2025 decree by the Kinshasa governor, aimed at freeing public spaces from pirate markets. The markets have become breeding grounds for filth, with trash scattered everywhere, including plastic bags, bottles, and food waste.
The trash issue is compounded by the fact that many vendors use the area as a resting place, and the nearby drains are often clogged. The stench from the garbage is overwhelming, forcing passersby to cover their noses. In some areas, trash is being burned in the open, releasing thick black smoke into the air and adding to the pollution.
A recent visit by elements of the Service national, tasked with maintaining order, appears to have had limited impact. The situation has largely reverted to its usual state of chaos, with trash, traffic congestion, and pirate markets persisting. The police presence seems focused more on collecting "taxes" from vendors and motorists rather than enforcing order.
The Ngaba roundabout has become a symbol of the anarchy that pervades Kinshasa. Despite the efforts of some authorities to restore order, the situation remains dire. The local population and road users are bearing the brunt of this chaos, which seems to be getting worse by the day.
The situation at Ngaba roundabout highlights the need for more effective measures to address the issue of pirate markets, trash, and traffic congestion in Kinshasa. Until then, the anarchy at this critical intersection is likely to persist, posing a significant challenge to the city's authorities.
Key points
- The Ngaba roundabout in Kinshasa is plagued by chaos, trash, and pirate markets, despite efforts to restore order.
- The situation has been exacerbated by a lack of effective regulation and enforcement.
- The anarchy at Ngaba roundabout has significant implications for the city's population and road users.
