The Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) has issued an urgent security advisory following the abduction of Kenyan drivers and transport workers along a key cargo route in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), amid growing concerns over renewed violence targeting drivers operating in the region.
The association said the drivers were abducted by armed rebels along the Mahagi-Pimbo-Djugu-Bunia-Kisangani transport corridor before being rescued by forces loyal to the Congolese government.
In a security advisory dated October 15, LoDDCA warned drivers, transport companies, cargo owners and logistics operators against using the corridor until the security situation improves.
The advisory came as the association revealed it had received distressing reports of renewed violence along the route, including the reported killing of Kenyan driver Mohamed Tahlil and other fatalities involving transport workers and civilians.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the wider transport fraternity affected by these tragic incidents,” LoDDCA stated.
The association said insecurity, coupled with poor road conditions along sections of the corridor, had significantly increased risks faced by drivers, conductors, cargo transporters and other road users operating in eastern Congo.
Warning to Kenyan Drivers
To safeguard transport workers, LoDDCA advised transport companies to immediately suspend all non-essential travel along the Mahagi-Pimbo-Djugu-Bunia-Kisangani route until authorities verify that it is safe.
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The association also urged logistics operators to refrain from dispatching trucks and transport personnel into affected areas without reliable security clearances and updated risk assessments.
Drivers already within the corridor were advised to seek safe locations, maintain communication with fleet managers and strictly follow guidance from recognized security and local authorities.
LoDDCA further called on transport stakeholders to prioritize the safety and welfare of drivers and crew members above commercial obligations, delivery schedules and contractual timelines.
The association cautioned against circulating unverified information that could cause confusion or panic, instead urging transporters to rely only on credible and confirmed security updates.
Call for Regional Action
LoDDCA called on the governments of Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo, security agencies, transport regulators, cargo owners and regional trade bodies to strengthen cross-border security coordination.
The association said enhanced information-sharing and closer collaboration between authorities were necessary to protect transport workers and secure regional trade corridors.
According to LoDDCA, no driver should be forced to risk their life while trying to earn a livelihood.
The organization said it would continue monitoring developments in the region and issue further updates as more credible information becomes available.
Meanwhile, the advisory remains in force until there is sufficient assurance that transport operations along the affected corridor can safely resume.
The latest incident has once again highlighted the dangers facing truck drivers operating across parts of eastern Congo, where insecurity continues to pose major challenges to trade, logistics and the movement of goods across borders.
Current Situation in Congo
Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains gripped by fighting between government forces and the M23 rebel movement, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
The M23-led Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) coalition captured Goma, North Kivu’s capital, and Bukavu, South Kivu’s capital, in early 2025.
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The rebels continue to control significant territory, while the Congolese army, supported by pro-government Wazalendo fighters, contests their advances.
The Congolese government accuses neighbouring Rwanda of supporting M23, an allegation Kigali denies. Rwanda says its security concerns include the presence of the FDLR armed group in eastern Congo.
The conflict has displaced civilians and disrupted access to food, healthcare and humanitarian assistance. Eastern Congo’s mineral wealth, including gold and coltan, adds an economic dimension to the fighting.
A new development emerged on October 12, when former Congolese President Joseph Kabila announced a political-military coalition, the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), which includes M23 and its political wing, AFC. The move adds another dimension to President Félix Tshisekedi’s confrontation with the rebels and could complicate peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, the African Union has intensified mediation efforts.
Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde and former Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi held consultations in Goma and Kigali in early October.
The talks focus on implementing existing peace agreements, protecting civilians and restoring security. However, fighting continues, and the agreements have yet to produce a lasting ceasefire.
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