Is Kinshasa Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, is generally not considered safe for direct drinking due to contamination risks.
Water supply infrastructure is often inadequate, leading to potential microbial and chemical contamination. Boiling or treatment is recommended before use.
Bottled or treated water is commonly used by residents to avoid waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid prevalent in the region.
Last checked: 2025-04-25
DR Congo is ranked as number 142 globally with a score of 25.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Kinshasa, DR Congo
Kinshasa's tap water primarily comes from the Congo River, the main surface water source for the city.
Water treatment plants process river water, but treatment levels vary, affecting water quality.
Groundwater sources, such as wells and boreholes, supplement the water supply, especially in areas with limited river water access.
Kinshasa Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Kinshasa are generally not considered safe due to inconsistent water quality and potential contamination.
Maintenance and sanitation of fountains are often inadequate, increasing the risk of waterborne illnesses.
Using bottled or treated water remains the safer option for drinking in public areas.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Kinshasa. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.