The Digital Press

Gigantic earth cracks called gullies are rapidly expanding in African cities, destroying homes and displacing thousands, with devastating human consequences.

Why it matters: Expanding gullies have displaced over 118,000 people in the DRC from 2004-2023, with rates doubling after 2020.

The stakes: Without urgent investment in drainage and infrastructure, hundreds of thousands may be displaced across Africa in the next decade.

The big picture: Rapid urbanization, poor drainage, and climate change-driven heavier rains are fueling gully formation in vulnerable sandy soils.

Commenters say: Readers emphasize the need for sustainable urban planning, community involvement, and prompt funding to prevent worsening humanitarian crises.