A Tragic Incident in Bouansa
On June 19, 2025, a tragic event occurred in Bouansa, located in the Bouenza department in Congo’s south. Three members of a family—father, mother, and their young child—died after consuming a type of yam known for its toxic properties. The youngest succumbed first, followed by his mother, while the father passed away during transit to a medical facility in Nkayi, despite efforts from local authorities.
A Recurring Hazard
This incident is not isolated. Similar tragedies have unfolded across Congo in recent years due to the consumption of yams. In September 2024, seven individuals in the village of N’Sah met a similar fate, while others were hospitalized. In 2018, in Mossendjo of the Niari department, another case of fatal yam consumption was recorded. These instances reflect a worrying pattern of health risks posed by certain yam varieties common in the region.
Yams: A Double-Edged Sword
Yams are celebrated in Congolese cuisine for their nutritional value, offering essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, the existence of numerous yam varieties, many of which contain high levels of natural toxins like cyanide, poses a serious health risk. The developmental conditions of these yams, particularly their exposure to sunlight when not adequately buried, exacerbate their toxic properties. Villages often have unwritten rules forbidding the consumption of partially exposed yams to prevent poisoning.
Educational Imperative
As yam-related fatalities persist, there is a growing imperative for educational initiatives to inform the public about the dangers associated with certain yam varieties. Incorporating this knowledge into school curricula, particularly in subjects like natural sciences (SVT), could provide essential life-saving information. Understanding which yam species are safe and how to handle them can reduce the frequency of these tragic occurrences. It necessitates a concerted effort from public health authorities to raise awareness and guide safe yam consumption practices.