Landslide in Eastern Congo Kills at Least 13, Leaves Over 30 Missing

Landslide in eastern Congo devastates rural community

A deadly landslide in eastern Congo has killed at least 13 people and left more than 30 others missing, according to local authorities. The disaster struck a remote village in North Kivu province during the early hours of the morning, when many residents were still asleep.

Heavy overnight rainfall caused a steep hillside to collapse. As a result, large volumes of mud, rocks, and debris swept through homes, burying families and destroying property within minutes.

Search and rescue efforts continue amid challenges

Rescue teams, supported by local residents, have launched urgent search operations. However, damaged roads and ongoing rain have slowed access to the affected area. In addition, debris has blocked key routes linking the village to nearby towns.

Authorities say the number of casualties may rise as rescuers reach areas that remain inaccessible. Many of the missing are believed to be trapped beneath collapsed houses and soil.

Children among the victims

Officials confirmed that several children are among those killed in the landslide in eastern Congo. This has deepened grief within the community and intensified calls for urgent humanitarian assistance.

Survivors described scenes of panic as homes collapsed without warning. Many residents lost family members, shelter, and personal belongings in a single moment.

Heavy rainfall blamed for disaster

Meteorological reports indicate that intense seasonal rainfall triggered the landslide. During the rainy season, the soil in eastern Congo becomes highly unstable, especially in mountainous regions like North Kivu.

Deforestation and unregulated construction on steep slopes have also increased the risk of such disasters. Experts warn that without preventive measures, similar tragedies may occur again.

Eastern Congo faces multiple humanitarian pressures

The landslide adds to existing humanitarian challenges in eastern Congo. The region has endured years of insecurity, displacement, and limited infrastructure. Many communities already struggle to access basic services, including healthcare and emergency response.

As a result, local authorities face difficulties providing immediate relief to affected families. Emergency shelters, food supplies, and medical support are urgently needed.

Government response and calls for support

Provincial officials say they are coordinating emergency assistance and damage assessments. They have appealed for national and international support to help with rescue operations and recovery efforts.

Humanitarian workers stress the importance of improving early warning systems and land management policies. Such steps could help reduce the impact of future disasters in vulnerable areas.

Climate risks increase disaster frequency

Climate experts note that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent across central Africa. Prolonged rainfall and environmental degradation continue to expose communities to landslides and flooding.

Therefore, long-term solutions must include climate adaptation strategies, better urban planning, and environmental protection.

Community resilience amid tragedy

Despite the devastation, residents have shown resilience by supporting one another. Volunteers continue to dig through debris, hoping to find survivors. Community leaders are organising temporary shelter for displaced families.

As recovery efforts continue, the landslide in eastern Congo serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the urgent need for preventive action.