Cholera Emergency Declared in DR Congo Capital

The Democratic Republic of Congo has declared a state of maximum alert in the capital, Kinshasa, following a significant surge in cholera infections, placing nearly 15 million people at risk.

President Félix Tshisekedi issued the directive during a cabinet meeting, calling for the immediate mobilization of national sectors and the implementation of an emergency response plan with support from international partners, including the World Health Organization and UNICEF.

Authorities have begun rolling out urgent measures, including the deployment of mobile treatment centers, the distribution of clean drinking water and hygiene supplies, and the sanitization of public areas.

The outbreak comes amid worsening conditions in Kinshasa, where poor sanitation infrastructure, water contamination, overcrowding, and recent flood damage have created an ideal environment for the disease to spread.

The Congolese News Agency reported that President Tshisekedi has urged a nationwide mobilization effort and the provision of both logistical and financial resources to combat what he described as a major public health threat.

The government’s swift response aims to contain the outbreak and prevent further escalation in one of Africa’s most densely populated urban centers.