The CPA Mushi neighborhood in Kinshasa's Ngaliema commune is exposed to powerful explosions from quarries along the Congo River. Despite some quarries reducing their explosive charges, residents of Mbudi and Matshungu are still severely affected. A local doctor and notable figures have initiated citizen-led efforts to address the issue and protect the health, safety, and peace of riverine populations.
The repeated explosions cause ground tremors, filling households with fear. The acoustic and vibrational pollution is accompanied by large amounts of smoke and dust, significantly degrading residents' health and living conditions. According to Godé Aloyi, a local leader, complaints from residents are increasing as the explosions continue to cause shockwaves in the area.
The physical impact on the living environment is dramatic, with vibrations cracking walls and weakening buildings. The immediate danger comes from flying projectiles, such as stones and rocks, propelled at high speed by dynamite. These projectiles can land inside homes, piercing roofs and putting occupants' lives at risk. A resident of Matshungu shared his struggles with repeated construction damage due to the explosions.
The situation is critical in Matshungu, located on the riverbank. Araine Nseya, a young resident, shared her emotional account of the daily insecurity and stress experienced by young people and families in the neighborhood. Quarry companies send agents with megaphones to alert residents the evening before each explosion, advising them to open doors and windows to avoid damage.
However, those who neglect this warning often suffer broken windows and doors being blown off their hinges. The explosions occur three to four times a month, with quarries systematically dispatching agents to warn residents. Local notable figures express concern about the threat to strategic infrastructure, including high-voltage SNEL pylons and power lines to the presidency.
The violence of the explosions near these critical equipment compromises their stability. The destruction of riverbanks and resulting unsanitary conditions are also pressing issues, as other nations protect and develop their riverbanks, while the Congo River's banks are degraded and turned into garbage dumps. The double impact of explosions from both Kinshasa and Brazzaville intensifies the effects on riverine populations.
In response to this alarming situation, residents of CPA Mushi, particularly those in Matshungu and Mbudi, supported by local notable figures and a Congolese doctor, are urgently calling on competent authorities to strictly regulate dynamite extraction activities. This would protect residential areas and preserve the natural heritage of the Congo River.
Key points
- DR Congo riverine communities face significant threats from quarry explosions.
- Repeated explosions cause physical damage, health issues, and environmental degradation.
- Residents and local leaders are calling for stricter regulations on dynamite extraction activities.
