Zambia Raises Safety Concerns for Truck Drivers in DR Congo
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has expressed serious concern over growing security threats facing Zambian truck drivers operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citing reports of harassment, intimidation and violent attacks along key transport routes.
In a Government communiqué issued by Minister of Defence Hon. Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma, MP, authorities reaffirmed that the safety, dignity and welfare of Zambian citizens engaged in cross-border trade remain a national priority and a matter of active diplomatic engagement.
Government also conveyed condolences to the family, relatives and colleagues of Mr Joseph Martin Chivanga, a Zambian truck driver who was found dead in the DRC in December 2025. The Government said it stands in solidarity with the bereaved family and the wider trucking community during the difficult period.
Acknowledging that the incidents reflect wider security and enforcement challenges along major trucking corridors in the DRC, Government disclosed that it has intensified diplomatic engagements with Congolese authorities. These efforts include high-level bilateral security consultations aimed at strengthening cooperation, intelligence sharing and protection along high-risk routes.
Zambia has formally requested the DRC Government to put in place stronger measures to curb criminal activity and attacks against foreign truck drivers, in line with international and regional obligations governing cross-border transport workers.
The matter is also set to be urgently escalated to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to seek collective and long-term solutions that ensure the safety and rights of truck drivers operating across the region.
In addition, Government is coordinating with relevant agencies to strengthen border operations, including emergency response systems and rapid reporting mechanisms for drivers facing threats or harassment.
While recognising frustrations within the transport sector over recent incidents and perceived delays, Government stressed its commitment to sustained action and engagement to protect Zambian drivers who play a critical role in regional trade and economic integration.
Government further revealed that the Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security between Zambia and the DRC is currently underway in Lubumbashi, where the safety of Zambian and other foreign truck drivers is receiving urgent attention.
Hon. Lufuma emphasised the importance of maintaining cordial relations between Zambia and the DRC, noting the strong social and economic ties between the two neighbouring countries.
The Ministry of Defence, working alongside the Office of the President and several key ministries, will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as diplomatic and security interventions progress.
