Kibirizi in North Kivu deprived of drinking water for two weeks

Kibirizi, a town in the Mutanda grouping of North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, is grappling with a critical shortage of drinking water that has persisted for two weeks. The town, located in the Rutshuru territory, is experiencing severe scarcity, with water points set up by the NGO Mercy Corps frequently running dry during the day.

This lack of access to safe water is forcing residents to turn to unprotected springs and streams, exposing them to significant health risks, including waterborne diseases. Local inhabitants describe arduous efforts to obtain water, often waking in the early hours of the morning to queue at the few functioning water points, only to find them empty.

"The lack of water concerns us greatly," said resident Madame Kasoki. "Mercy Corps had installed water fountains, but today the water does not flow. We are suffering enormously. To get a container of water, you have to get up around 1 am."

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The lack of water concerns us greatly. Mercy Corps had installed water fountains, but today the water does not flow. We are suffering enormously. To get a container of water, you have to get up around 1 am.

Annuarite, another resident, echoed these concerns, highlighting the long distances people must travel to find water. "Since this morning, we have had no water. It is truly deplorable. Help us find drinking water. The taps are dry, and many families do not know what to do," she stated.

In response to the crisis, the Association of Volunteers and Entrepreneurs for Endogenous Development has begun work on developing new water collection points in the Kanyatsi mountains, approximately 5 kilometers from Kibirizi. However, the organization is appealing for external support to enhance its capacity and effectively address the community's urgent needs. The fragile security situation in the region further complicates efforts to provide essential services like clean water.

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Since this morning, we have had no water. It is truly deplorable. Help us find drinking water. The taps are dry, and many families do not know what to do.