Water Crisis In The Heart of Africa
In a nation rich in diamonds and gold, thousands of Congolese children die for lack of something as basic as water.
Despite its vast reserves of natural resources — including minerals, timber and precious Diamonds — the Democratic Republic of Congo remains one of the poorest nations in the world. Decades of colonial exploitation and poor economic management have left most citizens unable to benefit from the land’s wealth. A lack of access to clean water and sanitation is one of the lead causes of preventable child deaths in the country, with diseases such as cholera claiming the lives of thousands of children every year.
Although the Democratic Republic of Congo holds over 50% of Africa’s fresh water reserves, many communities — particularly in remote regions — still lack access to clean drinking water. These communities often rely on surface water sources including lakes and rivers. These sources are often contaminated with human and animal waste, making them hotspots for waterborne illnesses
Cholera and other diarrheal diseases are among the top causes of death in children under five in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the Center for Disease Control, Cholera is a bacterial disease spread through contaminated water. The disease can cause watery diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration, and ultimately death if left untreated. Each year, an estimated 21,000 to 143,000 people die from the disease.
Highly virulent and fast spreading, Cholera is an easily treatable disease. However, widespread gaps in healthcare access prevents children in the region from receiving treatment. While adults can contract cholera and remain asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms, children are more vulnerable. Malnutrition and chronic dehydration weaken their immune systems, making them more susceptible to severe illness and death.
The risk is even greater for children living in displacement camps and other areas with limited access to clean water and proper hygiene practices. In the North Kivu province, for example, a surge of Cholera cases was linked to increased displacement and is currently impacting the area. Over 41,000 cases and 314 deaths have been reported this year. Overcrowding and poor access to clean water and sanitation in such settings create the ideal conditions for outbreaks.
Ongoing efforts to improve water access and sanitation in the Democratic Republic of Congo include projects led by international organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization. These initiatives focus on water purification, hygiene education, and the delivery of emergency medical care during disease outbreaks. However, despite these efforts, significant challenges remain due to limited infrastructure and frequent displacement.
