DRC: Flood resilience through early warning

ORGANISATION
DJPDI Asbl

LOCATION
Masisi Territory and the city of Goma, North Kivu Province, DRC

Protecting communities through early warning and local action

The Democratic Republic of Congo faces a complex humanitarian and security crisis. In Goma, ongoing conflict between armed groups and government forces has caused displacement, infrastructure destruction, and widespread insecurity. The city is also experiencing a cholera epidemic, compounding the vulnerability of its population, particularly young people, people with disabilities, and pregnant women.

Historically, the absence of effective early warning systems has left communities unprepared for natural disasters such as floods, leading to loss of life, material damage, and economic disruption. Young people are at risk of recruitment by armed groups, while people with disabilities face particular challenges during emergencies.

Building capacity for anticipation

To address these risks, DJPDI organised capacity-building workshops for local officials, youth representatives, and civil society members, focusing on early warning systems and the government’s contingency plans for natural disasters in Goma. Communities were provided with practical tools for risk prevention, while awareness-raising campaigns strengthened communication channels and community preparedness.

Tangible impact

The project has transformed local understanding of disaster risk: communities now monitor environmental hazards, anticipate floods, and take preventive measures. Knowledge of risk assessment and local early warning protocols has improved, and trust in authorities issuing alerts has increased. As residents shared:

“We saw the terrible rains destroy our homes and fields, wash away all our crops, and we were forced to move.” – Dusabe, 50

“This region is really like an ordeal of armed conflict every year, forcing us to move. The conflicts here are also sometimes caused by climate issues, but this is our land and we are forced to adapt.” – Jonas, 37

While some vulnerable communities remain uncovered, the project has strengthened resilience, reduced potential human and economic losses, and fostered local capacity to respond proactively.

Keys to success

The project’s effectiveness is rooted in inclusivity, participatory planning, and strong coordination between stakeholders and communities. Local engagement in every stage – from planning to training and implementation – has been essential, ensuring the system meets community needs and can be replicated elsewhere. Information sharing and continuous collaboration with authorities have reinforced trust and accountability.

Overview

The early warning system in Masisi and Goma demonstrates how inclusive, community-led approaches can transform disaster preparedness. Communities now know how to identify risks, act before disasters strike, and collaborate with local authorities to minimise harm. This model offers a replicable example of effective, locally owned resilience in conflict-affected and hazard-prone settings.

This International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, GNDR calls for governments, donors, the private sector and financial institutions to prioritise funding for resilience, not just funding for disasters when they strike.

All photos: DJPDI Asbl