DRC: At least 14 killed in road accident in Kinshasa February 16

Event

At least 14 people were killed and dozens injured in a road accident in the capital, Kinshasa, on Sunday, February 16. A security official reportedly said that a lorry carrying stones crashed into several vehicles after its brakes failed. Details are still emerging. 

The incident serves as a reminder that road travel across the country can be dangerous. Rates of traffic accidents and deaths are high due to poorly maintained vehicles, low driving standards, and poor road and emergency infrastructure.

Advice

Individuals in the DRC are advised to be highly cautious when traveling by road; avoid travel at night and only travel in well-maintained vehicles with seatbelts. Road travel should be conducted by a chauffeured car or by a licensed taxi booked via the hotel. Whenever possible, it is safest to travel by air when undertaking long-distance trips within the country.