In the wake of devastating floods and landslides that hit Kinshasa and its surrounding areas, the Catholic bishops of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have shown their heartfelt solidarity with the victims of the tragedy.
The disaster, which took place on April 5-6, 2025, left dozens dead and thousands displaced, sparking an outpouring of support from religious and community leaders.
The Devastating Impact of the Floods
Heavy rains caused the N’Djili River, which flows through the capital city of Kinshasa, to burst its banks, flooding major roads and causing widespread damage.
The torrential downpours led to a crisis, leaving at least 33 people dead and forcing thousands to seek refuge in temporary shelters.
Over half of the city, which has an estimated population of 17.8 million, was severely affected by the floods.
According to reports, the floods cut off access to critical areas, complicating efforts to provide assistance and evacuate survivors.
Church Leaders Offer Support and Prayers
In a statement released on April 9, members of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) expressed their deep sorrow over the tragic events and extended their spiritual closeness to the victims.
The bishops assured the people of their prayers and pledged to support the ongoing efforts to aid those affected.
They also commended the Congolese government for its swift response and measures to assist those in need, while calling on humanitarian organizations and the global community to lend their support.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events caused by the torrential rains… resulting in the loss of human lives and significant material damage,” the statement read.
The bishops also expressed their solidarity with Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of Kinshasa and Bishop Jean-Crispin Kimbeni of Kisantu, who are working tirelessly to provide assistance and comfort to those in the hardest-hit areas.
Local Priest Reflects on the Tragedy
Father Patrick Lonkoy Bolengu, a Catholic priest in Kinshasa, shared his firsthand experience of the disaster, describing the heartbreaking scenes he witnessed as the floods tore through the city.
“Nothing prepared me for the sorrow I now witness in my beloved city,” said Bolengu.
The priest, who has spent his life ministering to the sick and the poor, spoke with deep emotion about the anguish of the people as they struggled to cope with the aftermath of the disaster.
“For two days, Kinshasa was torn in two,” he recalled. “Its people stranded, helpless, grieving.”
The devastation left the streets flooded with debris, and families were left searching for whatever remained of their homes. Bolengu added, “The cries of children echo through flooded streets.
Mothers search for what little remains of their homes. The elderly sit in silence, waiting, some in despair, others in prayer.”
Cardinal Ambongo Offers Solidarity and Hope
On April 9, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo visited one of the most affected neighborhoods, Ndanu, to offer his support and comfort to those who had lost their homes and loved ones.
Accompanied by members of the Catholic community and volunteers, Ambongo visited local parishes that had been severely damaged by the floods.
During his visit, the cardinal expressed his deep solidarity with the victims and shared in their suffering, offering a message of hope in the face of tragedy.
“We are here to share in the pain of our brothers and sisters, to offer them solidarity and hope in these difficult times,” Cardinal Ambongo said.
His visit was seen as a gesture of compassion that brought comfort to the survivors, who expressed gratitude for the cardinal’s presence and support.
One resident remarked, “It’s a gesture from the heart. He came to share in our suffering, to comfort us.
We hope his involvement will inspire political leaders to take concrete action to prevent such tragedies in the future.”
A Longstanding Crisis in the DRC
The recent flooding comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In addition to the natural disasters, the DRC continues to grapple with an escalating humanitarian crisis caused by armed conflicts, particularly in the eastern region, where rebel groups like the March 23 Movement have made significant advances.
Experts warn that if the violence persists, the country could face a complete breakdown of governance and infrastructure.
Father Bolengu, who has witnessed the toll of both natural disasters and armed conflict, remains committed to speaking out for the voiceless.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, he is determined to continue advocating for those affected by the crisis, whether they are victims of floods, war, or poverty.
A Call for Solidarity and Action
As the people of Kinshasa recover from the devastating floods, there is a renewed call for solidarity from both local and international communities.
The Catholic Church and other humanitarian organizations have been working to provide support, but there is still much to be done.
The bishops of the DRC have called on everyone to come together and offer their help to those in need, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of such overwhelming challenges.
“We are all part of the human family,” the bishops said.
“Let us come together to help our brothers and sisters in their time of need, and may our collective efforts bring hope and healing to those affected by this disaster.”