Zambia, DRC agree on measures to end Kasumbalesa border congestion

Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have agreed on immediate measures to resolve the traffic congestion along the Kasumbalesa border route, where over 1,500 trucks are currently stranded.

Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Chipoka Mulenga and Copperbelt Minister, Elisha Matambo, met with DRC Haut-Katanga Governor, Kyabula Katwe, and other officials on Sunday to address the logistical challenges.

Following discussions at Kasumbalesa border post, the two governments announced resolutions to ease the congestion.

“The two governments have agreed to clear 500 trucks per day and extend operating hours at Kasumbalesa Border Post, Mokambo Border Post, and Sakania Border from 06:00 to 20:00, starting Sunday 12th January 2924,” said Minister Mulenga.

Minister Matambo attributed the congestion to the introduction of the Electronic Seals Clearance System and management changes on the DRC side, which caused delays in clearing transit trucks.

“Zambia and the DRC are like brothers and sisters, and such issues must be resolved through dialogue.

“Our Heads of State, President Hakainde Hichilema and President Felix Tshisekedi, have instructed us to ensure these challenges are resolved permanently to promote trade within the SADC and COMESA regions,” Matambo said.

The Zambian officials later addressed truck drivers, assuring them of safety and support, including access to water and other essential services.

Matambo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving the matter, emphasizing President Hichilema’s concern for the affected drivers.

He also urged opposition leaders not to politicise the situation, stating, “The traffic congestion at Kasumbalesa is purely DRC’s issue, and the two governments have agreed to resolve it.”

Meanwhile, Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Truck Drivers Association president,Eugene Ndhlovu, called on Zambia and the DRC to act swiftly, warning that delays could lead to disease outbreaks due to poor sanitation.

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