Innovative Collaboration Tackles Flood Management in Kinshasa

The Ndjili River is a key water source for Kinshasa, supplying clean water to millions. However, rapid urbanization, deforestation, and climate change have rendered the river increasingly vulnerable to pollution, flooding, and ecological degradation. These challenges exacerbate public health issues, damage infrastructure, and threaten biodiversity.

In this context, the workshop aimed to design an innovative monitoring and management mechanism for the river basin, leveraging real-time data and simulation technology.

A key focus of the workshop was the introduction of a Digital Twin (DT) for the Ndjili River. This cutting-edge technology creates a virtual replica of the river system, allowing for real-time monitoring, predictive simulations, and informed decision-making.

Key capabilities of the Digital Twin include:

• Flood and pollution simulations: Predicting environmental impacts based on urbanization and climate scenarios.
• Real-time alerts: Enabling proactive responses to rising water levels and pollution spikes.
• Collaborative governance: Integrating inputs from local communities, government agencies, and international experts.

The methodology emphasized a participatory approach, with community members actively contributing to mapping, data collection, and the co-design of solutions.

The workshop brought together diverse stakeholders, including:

• EPFL and UM6P, providing technological expertise.
• CRRDC and local Red Cross volunteers, ensuring community engagement.
• Government Officials from the ministry of interior, Ministry of scientific research, local Kinshasa government, Meteorological agency.
• Academic experts, such as Prof Jerome Chenal and Dr. Jean-Claude Baraka from EPFL; and Dr. Imane Serbouti (UM6P), Dr. Mohammed Hlal from UM6P; Dr Hyppolite Ditona and Prof Crispin Mabika from Unikin, and Prof. Tresor Lumfuankenda Bungiena, offering insights on predictive modeling and sustainable practices.

Interactive sessions, including brainstorming exercises, field visits, and group discussions, identified major challenges and innovative solutions. For example:

• Challenge: Managing solid waste and water pollution.
• Solution: Introducing early warning systems, afforestation programs, and stricter regulations on construction in flood zones.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to develop and implement sustainable strategies for the Ndjili River basin, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Improved water resource management.
• SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Enhanced urban resilience.
• SDG 13 (Climate Action): Nature-based solutions for flood prevention.

Recommendations included forming a dedicated governance committee, strengthening local partnerships, and scaling up the Digital Twin model to other vulnerable regions as soon as the tool is piloted.

As Kinshasa grapples with the dual pressures of urban growth and climate change, this collaborative initiative represents a beacon of hope. By blending technological innovation with community-driven solutions, stakeholders have charted a course toward a more resilient and sustainable future for the Ndjili River and its communities.

The success of this workshop underscores the power of partnerships in tackling complex environmental challenges and sets a benchmark for similar initiatives globally. Stay tuned as this project evolves into a model of excellence in climate adaptation and urban sustainability.