Goma, DRC: A well-informed population is less exposed to the risks of volcanic eruptions

Goma is not far from the Virunga volcanic region, located between Lake Kivu and the volcanoes Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira, the latter of which erupts nearly every year. The impact of these eruptions on infrastructure often disturbs economic, social and educational activities. Many cases of accidents caused by a lack of preventative measures have been registered by the Goma Volcano Observatory (GVO).

Volcano Nyiragongo destroyed 13% of Goma city in 2002. Luckily, pupils and teachers are now being educated about how to reduce the dangers that volcano eruptions expose them to. UNICEF and the DRC Government are working together to increase awareness through a disaster risk reduction education programme.

In 2014, an educational programme on the reduction of risks from natural disasters was put in place in Goma schools and their periphery by the Ministry of Primary, Secondary and Professional Education (EPSP), in collaboration with UNICEF. Through this programme, the population is now well-informed and knows what steps must be taken to reduce risk.