DRC: Demonstration scheduled along N5 highway in South Kivu on August 20

Event

A protest is scheduled to take place on the N5 highway on Friday, August 20, in the Runingu area of South Kivu province. The demonstration, which is being held by a civil society group, is over local grievances, with reports stating that roadblocks are likely to be erected. The N5 highway links the provincial capital Bukavu with Uvira.

A heightened security presence and localized travel disruptions should be anticipated. 

Advice

Those due to transit along the N5 highway are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, monitor the situation, allow ample travel time, adjust itineraries accordingly, and obey instructions issued by local authorities.

A number of Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the east and northeast of the country due to poor security conditions, including the presence of armed groups and a high risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice should be sought prior to travel.