Kwango Launches Erosion Control Works in Kenge
In a bid to combat the devastating effects of erosion on critical infrastructure and homes in Kenge, the Office of Roads and Drainage (OVD) in the Kwango province has initiated a comprehensive erosion control project. The focus of this endeavor is on the Epom erosion, which poses a significant threat to the city.
The project entails the construction of a 950-meter-long, 1.67-meter-wide, and 1.90-meter-high collector, along with a 650-meter-long, 0.80-meter-wide, and 1.08-meter-high canal. These works are expected to span four months and aim to stall the progression of the erosion while safeguarding at-risk areas.
A Major Challenge for Kwango
Governor Willy Bitwisila of the Kwango province has underscored the urgency of addressing erosion-related issues in Kenge due to the substantial damages they have already inflicted. He emphasized that the city faces a significant challenge, with families being displaced and homes lost as a result of erosion. The governor stressed that this predicament extends beyond Kenge to other regions within the Kwango province.
A Widespread Threat
Kenge is home to around twenty active erosion sites, including Epom, Forage, Masikita, Lumba, and Saint-Esprit, all of which pose imminent dangers. These natural phenomena, exacerbated by the lack of appropriate infrastructure, continue to weaken local structures and disrupt the daily lives of residents.
Jonathan’s Perspective: A Personal Encounter with Erosion
Jonathan Mesa, a longtime resident of Kenge, shared his personal account of how erosion has affected his community. He vividly remembers the fear and uncertainty that gripped the neighborhood when Epom erosion threatened to engulf nearby homes. Jonathan emphasized the importance of swift and decisive action in mitigating the impacts of erosion, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions to safeguard the well-being of residents.
As communities in Kenge grapple with the pervasive threat of erosion, it is clear that concerted efforts such as the ongoing erosion control works by Kwango authorities are essential to preserving the city’s infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its inhabitants. Through collaborative initiatives and proactive measures, Kenge can fortify its defenses against erosion and pave the way for a more resilient future.