Drowning Prevention Day spurs safety campaigns in Congo and Cambodia

On July 25, the Congolese Federation of Aquatic Rescue and First Aid (FCSSA) marked World Drowning Prevention Day with a public awareness event in Kinshasa. President Nadège Leba Boum addressed athletes, health professionals and officials, stressing the importance of rescue techniques and safe practices. Dr. Mendele Ngwala Leba demonstrated life‑saving gestures, while demonstrations by federation athletes showcased practical skills.

Two days later in Siem Reap, Cambodia, more than 500 people, including over 300 children, gathered for a community‑wide event organized by Hile Teuk Kampuchea (HTK), UNICEF Cambodia, the Ministry of Interior and local authorities. The program featured swimming lessons, water‑safety education, CPR training and live rescue demonstrations, aiming to reduce child drownings, which are the leading cause of death for ages 5‑14 in Cambodia. The event also celebrated the graduation of 60 children from a ten‑day swimming programme.

Both initiatives highlighted the global theme “United to Turn the Tide,” emphasizing that drowning is preventable through education, supervision and practical water‑safety skills.