DRC pledges security to international truckers

DRC pledges security to international truckers

By Thandizo Banda

THE 14th Session of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security has resolved that the government of the DRC will improve security for international truck drivers to avoid attacks while ferrying goods.

DRC has been urged to ensure that in all areas where attacks on international truck drivers are being reported, security must be increased to promote international trade.

According to a communique issued at the end of the 14th Session of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)=Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security held in Lubumbashi

from 12 to 16 January 2026, the issue of insecurity for truck drivers will be attended to as soon as possible.

“Regarding the facilitation of commerce and trade, the commission said it had taken note of the security challenges that international truckers faced as they transited through DRC while transporting goods in view of recent attacks,” read the communique in part.

The two countries also emphasised the need for international trade not to be affected by attacks on truck drivers.

“Therefore, the commission agreed that the DRC government should enhance security measures along high-risk trucking routes in order to guarantee the safety of foreign truck drivers, in line with international norms and regional protocols on the safety of cross-border transport workers,” it said.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo has wished Zambia continued peace during the general elections to be held in August this year.

On the ongoing insecurity in the eastern DRC, Zambia and DRC have rallied behind international efforts to stop the fighting.

The communique was signed by Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma and Democratic Republic of Congo Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Security, Decentralisation and Traditional Affairs Lukoo Bihango Jacquemain Shabani.