DRC: Unionized truck drivers stage nationwide strike and protest along National Route 1 as of Sept. 16

As of Sept. 16, unionized truckers affiliated with the Congolese Inter-Union of Road Transporters are staging an indefinite strike and protest along the country's National Route 1. The purpose of the action is to demand the government implement previously agreed-upon truckers' demands, remove certain roadway taxes, and put an end to alleged toll harassment. Truck drivers are also protesting the ban on driving and unloading cargo during daylight hours in the capital city of Kinshasa. The number of truck drivers participating in the strike and any associated protests was not immediately clear.

The strike action will likely disrupt freight transport across the country along National Route 1 and may cause business disruptions in some areas. Transport disruptions are also likely along National Route 1 and may prompt protests and clashes. Authorities will almost certainly dispatch security forces to the sites of any demonstrations that materialize. Clashes between protesting truck drivers and security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if protesting truck drivers attempt to block vehicular traffic or ignore any orders from authorities to disperse.

NR 1 spans approximately 3,130 km (1,940 mi) in length from the western seaport of Banana, Kongo Prov., to Kasumbalesa, Haut-Katanga Prov., in the southeast.