Long-distance trucks along the Amagoro-Malaba Highway await clearance into Uganda. /FILEThe Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) has urged Kenyan drivers and transport companies to suspend non-essential journeys along a major transport corridor in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following reports of renewed violence, including the killing of a Kenyan driver.
The association said it had received distressing reports of renewed attacks along the Mahagi-Pimbo-Djugu-Bunia-Kisangani corridor, including the reported killing of the driver and other fatalities involving transport workers and civilians.
In a security advisory, LoDDCA expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation, warning that poor road conditions in some sections of the route had heightened the risks facing drivers, conductors, cargo transporters and other road users.
"In the interest of safeguarding lives and protecting transport personnel, suspend all non-essential travel along the Mahagi-Pimbo-Djugu-Bunia-Kisangani corridor until the security situation is verified to be safe," LoDDCA said.
The association urged transport companies to prioritise the safety and welfare of their crew members above commercial interests, delivery schedules and contractual timelines.
It advised drivers already operating within the affected corridor to seek safe exit and follow guidance from recognised security agencies and local authorities.
"Ensure drivers currently within the affected corridor seek safe locations, maintain communication with fleet managers and strictly follow guidance from recognised security and local authorities," it said.
LoDDCA cautioned against dispatching trucks and transport personnel into affected areas without reliable security clearance and updated risk assessments.
“The safety, dignity and welfare of transport workers must remain a priority. No driver should be required to risk their life in the course of earning a livelihood,” the association said.
The emergency alert was triggered after six truck drivers, including Kenyan nationals, were briefly captured by rebels along the corridor in eastern DRC before being recovered.
Images from the ground show commercial trucks ambushed and heavily vandalised, featuring shattered windows, deflated tires, and missing number plates, with loose cargo scattered across the road.
Earlier this year, a Kenyan driver was killed in Bunia, and an August attack by suspected rebels along the connected Beni-Kisangani road left four drivers and their co-drivers dead.
LoDDCA called on the governments of Kenya and the DRC, security agencies, transport regulators, logistics companies, cargo owners and regional trade bodies to strengthen cross-border security coordination and information-sharing to protect transport workers and trade routes.
It also urged stakeholders to share only verified security information, warning against circulating unconfirmed reports that could cause confusion or panic.
LoDDCA said it would continue monitoring developments and issue further updates as credible information became available.
“This advisory remains in force until there is sufficient assurance that normal transport operations can safely resume along the affected corridor,” the association said.
