In eastern Congo, ongoing rebel activity has forced residents to rely on overcrowded boats for transportation, often leading to tragic accidents. Following a fatal capsizing incident resulting in numerous deaths, passengers continue to board vessels like the Emmanuel 2, despite safety concerns. Authorities face criticism for inadequate safety measures and accountability.
In the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a tragic accident on Lake Kivu has underscored the perilous options for transportation amid ongoing insecurity. Last week, an overcrowded ferry capsized, resulting in the deaths of eight members from Serge Nzonga’s family, alongside 70 other individuals. Despite this tragedy, Nzonga found himself lining up again at the Goma seaport on October 8, 2024, ready to board yet another overcrowded vessel, as roads blocked by rebel activity present greater dangers. Passengers, including journalists from the Associated Press, prepared to embark on the Emmanuel 2 ferry to Bukavu, the key alternative to the region’s treacherous roads, which are often interrupting travel due to violent clashes. Local authorities continue to investigate the recent capsizing as families of victims protested at Kituku port, accusing officials of negligence and failures in ensuring safety and prompt rescue operations. The frequent occurrence of overloaded boats capsizing is becoming alarming as many are now choosing boats over dangerous roads. Nzonga shared, “This is the only way we can reach our brothers and sisters in the other province of South Kivu. If we do not take this journey, there is no other route.” The lack of reliable roads has historically made rivers the primary transport method, particularly in remote areas. Many traders depend on this form of travel due to its speed and lower costs, but this results in overcrowding and generally poor safety standards. Eyewitnesses noted the recent boat was tipping under the weight of too many passengers just moments before it began to sink. Despite authorities threatening strict measures to prevent overloading and enforce safety protocols, actual implementations have been scarce. Analysts highlight that the dominance of the private sector on Lake Kivu complicates regulatory enforcement. Many passengers on current vessels, like the Emmanuel 4, navigated without life jackets as search efforts for missing victims were underway. Nzonga openly acknowledged the risks of boating without proper safety equipment, stating, “We are scared, but it is the only way we have to get to the other province. I still have to travel, even though we are used to it (the accidents).”
This article addresses the alarming safety conditions surrounding transportation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly concerning boat travel on Lake Kivu. Due to ongoing rebel activity that frequently blocks roads, many inhabitants of eastern Congo are left with no choice but to rely on boats for travel, despite the risks of overcrowding and lack of safety measures. Tragically, incidents of capsizing vessels have been on the rise, bringing to light the urgent need for improved regulations and infrastructure to safeguard passengers. The article highlights individual narratives to illustrate the broader implications of transportation issues in the region.
In summary, the transport crisis in eastern Congo, marked by the dangers of traveling by boat due to blocked roads and unsafe conditions, underscores a profound issue of infrastructural inadequacy and neglect by authorities. With rising incidents of tragic accidents, the situation calls for immediate attention to establish safer travel alternatives and enforce stricter regulatory measures to prevent loss of life on Lake Kivu.
Original Source: apnews.com
