Deadly Cholera Outbreak Hits DR Congo Prison
Last update: March 30, 2026
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Overcrowding and poor sanitation worsen health crisis in Mbanza-Ngungu facility.
A cholera outbreak at a prison in western Democratic Republic of Congo has killed 11 inmates and infected dozens more, the justice ministry said Monday.
Most Congolese prisons, built during Belgian colonial rule, are overcrowded, with prisoners sleeping on the ground and lacking access to clean drinking water.
The outbreak was confirmed on March 27 at the prison in the town of Mbanza-Ngungu in Kongo Central province, about 150 kilometres from the capital, Kinshasa, Justice Minister Guillaume Ngefa said.
"To date, 11 inmates have unfortunately succumbed to the illness, while 74 cases of infection have been recorded among a prison population of around 800," he said.
Medical teams have been sent to treat the sick and carry out preventive measures, including vaccinations.
Sanitation and disinfection efforts are underway, drinking water quality is being monitored, and new admissions to the prison have been temporarily suspended.
