Introduction

This article looks at the measures that need to be put in place to meet the challenges posed by excessive sunshine and rising temperatures in the city of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, against a backdrop of climate change and extreme weather phenomena.

Light clothing to avoid heatstroke

In an already congested city like Kinshasa, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to heatstroke, sunburn, skin disease and even more serious problems such as skin cancer, hence the need to inform the people of Kinshasa about the risks involved and the best practices to adopt to protect themselves from the sun.

By opting for light-coloured, lightweight clothing, people can avoid overheating and reduce the risk of heatstroke. Light-coloured clothes also help to reflect heat and keep you cooler for longer.

Raising people’s awareness of the dangers of excessive sunlight and encouraging them to wear light-coloured, lightweight clothing are effective ways of combating the harmful effects of the sun and rising temperatures in the city of Kinshasa.

Towards cooler, more pleasant urban spaces

Given the availability of water, Kinshasa is well placed to invest in the installation of misters and public fountains to cool the air in the city. Misting systems and public fountains create cool zones where residents can cool off during periods of excessive heat.

Trees and vegetation absorb the sun’s heat and provide shade, reducing the ambient temperature and limiting the heat island effect in the city. More trees and vegetation create a cooler, more pleasant environment for residents.

Reflective materials, such as white roofs or reflective paint, minimise the absorption of heat by buildings and therefore reduce indoor temperatures.

Finally, it is vital to put in place an emergency plan in the event of a heatwave to protect the population and limit heat-related health risks.

Conclusion

The fight against excessive sunshine and rising temperatures in Kinshasa requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach, incorporating awareness-raising, prevention and adaptation measures. It is essential to promote individual and collective practices aimed at protecting citizens’ health, greening the city and limiting the effects of the urban heat island. Initiatives ranging from planting trees to installing reflective materials on buildings and promoting environmentally-friendly public transport will help to mitigate the consequences of climate change.