In recent weeks, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been hit by a series of devastating natural disasters. 

Landslides and floods triggered by torrential rains have resulted in a significant loss of life and widespread damage across several regions.

In the eastern part of the country, particularly in the South Kivu region, landslides have caused destruction. 

On a single day, officials reported at least 20 fatalities due to landslides burying homes in the locality of Burhiny, in the Mwenga territory. 

The disaster has brought the total number of deaths caused by similar incidents in Congo to over 60 in just the past week. Territorial Administrator Walubila Ishikitilo confirmed the deaths were a direct result of landslides covering houses.

The government has been actively responding to this crisis, deploying emergency aid and initiating evacuations in affected areas. 

Flooding was also reported in other parts of Congo, including the capital, Kinshasa, situated along the banks of the Congo River, and in parts of Kasai province. These widespread floods have further exacerbated the situation, leading to additional loss of life and property damage.

There are reports of more than 20 artisanal miners losing their lives in Kamituga, also located in the Mwenga territory, due to landslides occurring just 48 hours prior. Additionally, 21 people died in Bukavu, another area in South Kivu, as a result of landslides caused by the relentless torrential rains.

Flooding in the central province of Kasai claimed at least 22 lives, including ten from the same family. The hours-long rainfall led to the destruction of numerous houses and structures in the district of Kananga in Kasai Central province.

Observers have pointed to the illegal construction of houses in unauthorized locations as a contributing factor to the extent of the damage caused by these natural disasters. Since the beginning of December 2023, the death toll in Congo due to such incidents has risen to at least 100.

The challenges local authorities and rescue teams face are immense, with difficult terrain and ongoing adverse weather conditions hampering efforts to reach all affected areas. 

Rescue operations are still ongoing in the affected areas.