Volcanic Eruption 2002

In January 2002, Mount Nyiragongo located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, erupted, destroying 15% of the city of Goma which was inclusive of the international airport and the business centre. The volcano ejected three streams of lava, reaching speeds of 60km/h and large clouds of ash and smoke which left thousands of people homeless.

Gift of the Givers Response:

The damage and destruction resulting from the volcanic eruption in Goma led us to transport some 70 tons of relief cargo, aboard two aircraft sponsored by the South African Department of International Relations and Co-operation.

The consignment comprised food, water purification tablets, buckets for clean water, new clothing and vital medicines. These goods had initially flown to Kigali and then transported by road to the hard-hit Goma area, because the airport had been closed due to air traffic in view of volcanic ash in the air.