The issue of promiscuity in the Matete district of Kinshasa: Health, social and environmental issues

Abstract

Residential overcrowding is a significant issue in urban areas characterised by high population density, dilapidated housing and inadequate sanitation infrastructure. This article analyses the issue of overcrowding in the Matete district of Kinshasa, focusing on its health, social, family and environmental dimensions. The study is based on field research and a descriptive and exploratory approach, supplemented by a review of documents relating to the area under study. The data collected indicate an increase in the number of occupants per dwelling, whilst the number of available rooms tends to decrease relative to household size. It also highlights difficulties with waste disposal, a strong presence of the informal economy, precarious socio-economic conditions and reports of several health problems. Analysis of the data reveals that 70 per cent of respondents rated the family atmosphere as ‘mixed’, whilst 30 per cent rated it as ‘good’. Waste disposal is mainly carried out using handcarts. Our research concludes that overcrowding should not be considered in isolation: it forms part of a set of factors including poverty, inadequate infrastructure, urbanisation and difficulties in waste management. Our recommendations focus on improving housing, sanitation, waste management, urban planning and strengthening community initiatives.

Keywords: overcrowding; housing; sanitation; health; urbanisation; Matete; Kinshasa.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/934