A violent storm swept through the Mbinga Nord groupment in the Kalehe territory of South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, on October 9, 2026, causing significant damage to several homes and a secondary school. The storm's strong winds ripped off roofs, leaving many families without adequate protection against the elements. The affected areas include the villages of Mukwidja, Kiniezire, and Karango, as well as the locality of Bubale 2, where the Gahana Institute is located.
The storm's impact has left many families facing difficulties in finding shelter, with some being forced to spend the night outdoors. The destruction of homes and the school has created an urgent need for repair and essential supplies. Benjamin Mungazi, president of the New Civil Society of Congo, Kalehe territorial coordination, has called for rapid intervention from authorities and humanitarian organizations to assist the affected families.
Mungazi's appeal for assistance includes a request for financial aid to enable families to rehabilitate their homes, as well as a distribution of food and essential items to cover immediate needs. The New Civil Society of Congo has emphasized the need for a swift response to alleviate the suffering of those affected and help families regain acceptable living conditions.
The affected areas, including Mukwidja, Kiniezire, Karango, and Bubale 2, are in dire need of support. The Gahana Institute, which was damaged in the storm, is among the institutions requiring assistance. The storm's aftermath has highlighted the vulnerability of communities in the region to natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and response measures.
According to Mungazi, the storm's impact is still being assessed, and the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined. However, it is clear that the affected families require urgent support to recover from the disaster. The New Civil Society of Congo is working to coordinate relief efforts and advocate for the needs of the affected communities.
The incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced by communities in the Kalehe region, where residents are often exposed to natural disasters and require support to build resilience. The response to this disaster will be crucial in helping families recover and rebuild their lives.
As the situation continues to unfold, humanitarian organizations and authorities are urged to provide assistance to the affected families. The support will not only help alleviate the immediate suffering but also contribute to the long-term recovery and resilience of the communities in the region.
Key points
- The storm damaged several homes and a school in the Mbinga Nord region, leaving families without shelter.
- The New Civil Society of Congo has called for rapid intervention from authorities and humanitarian organizations to assist the affected families.
- The affected areas require financial aid, food, and essential items to cover immediate needs.
