17/01/2026
Republic of Zambia
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
PRESS STATEMENT
(for immediate release)
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE SECURITY FOR
INTERNATIONAL TRUCK DRIVERS
Lubumbashi, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, Saturday 17th January, 2026
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 provide
adequate security to international truck drivers to avoid attacks when ferrying goods.
The Democratic Republic of Congo Government has been urged to ensure that in all areas where
attacks on international truck drivers are being reported, security must be enhanced 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 took note of security
challenges that international truckers faced as they transit through the 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.
”
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 Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and DRC have
rallied behind international efforts being made to stop the fighting.
“In reviewing recent developments