Republic of Congo declares state of natural disaster as severe flooding displaces 50,000 people

The Republic of Congo’s government has declared a state of natural disaster in three territories after severe flooding displaced at least 50,000 people.

The Council of Ministers said weeks of heavy rains in the Likouala, La Cuvette and Plateaux territories have destroyed homes and infrastructure.

The government says severe flooding has caused the loss of plantations, livestock and food reserves, and has led to a resurgence of waterborne diseases. Some 50,000 people along the Congo River are in a state of distress, according to the council.

Victor Ngassi, secretary general of Makotipoko, more than 400km (248 miles) upstream of Brazzaville, says people in his district are starving and waiting for government help, AP reports.