The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Celestine Ketcha Courtes, has urged the public to remain vigilant and take collective action following severe flooding in the Extreme North region of Cameroon. Torrential rains over the past few weeks have led to significant flooding, affecting towns such as Kousseri, Blangoua, Logone Birni, Makary, Zina, Yagoua, and others. The disaster has caused substantial material damage and resulted in human casualties.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
In response to the crisis, Minister Courtes expressed the government’s sympathy towards the affected populations. Local authorities have temporarily housed displaced individuals in government facilities. The government is actively working to address the issue of flooding, not only in the northern regions but throughout the country. Efforts include the construction of drainage systems and the implementation of urban planning initiatives.
Preventative Measures and Public Cooperation
To prevent future disasters, Minister Courtes called on local mayors to combat urban disorder and strictly enforce regulations. These measures include preventing the construction of houses and the improper disposal of waste in areas prone to flooding, especially near waterways. The minister emphasized that public cooperation is essential in mitigating the impact of climate change in Cameroon’s urban centers.
