Story perspectives

3.2 Million at Risk as Erosion Threatens Congo Cities

11/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

More than 3.2 million people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo live near expanding erosion channels that threaten urban areas.
Matthias Vanmaercke led research showing stormwater runoff forms channels that deepen and widen within a few rainy seasons.
The study mapped 2,922 channels across 26 cities, underscoring the need for improved urban planning.
Between 2004 and 2023, about 118,600 people lost homes as urban growth increased risk of damage.

1 of 1

Story summary

More than 3.2 million people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo live near expanding erosion channels that threaten urban areas.
Matthias Vanmaercke led research showing stormwater runoff forms channels that deepen and widen within a few rainy seasons.
The study mapped 2,922 channels across 26 cities, underscoring the need for improved urban planning.
Between 2004 and 2023, about 118,600 people lost homes as urban growth increased risk of damage.