DRC: Workers’ strike continues in Kinshasa Central Market March 12

Event

Workers in Kinshasa's Central Market continued strike actions and protests in and around the Central Market amid a heightened security presence on Tuesday, March 12. The March 12 protests follow demonstrations on Monday, March 11, during which police reportedly fired warning shots above striking workers. Further strikes and protests by workers in Kinshasa's Central Market are likely in the near term and clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Workers employed primarily in shops owned and operated by Indian, Pakistani, Lebanese, and Chinese expatriates began the strike and associated protests on Monday, March 11, in response to poor working conditions and wages below the mandated minimum. Workers reportedly intend to continue the strike until at least March 13.

Advice

Individuals in Kinshasa are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, refrain from discussing political topics in public, and adhere to all instructions issued by their home government and local authorities.