Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a third wave of coronavirus infections, with its epicentre in the capital, Kinshasa, one of Africa's most populous cities, according to Health Minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani.

"I officially announce the onset of the third wave of the Covid-10 pandemic in our country, with Kinshasa as its epicentre," Mbungani told reporters.

A low vaccination rate and haphazard observance of recommended hygiene practices were among the reasons for the rising infection rate, he said.

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