Minister of Transport and Logistics Frank Tayali, this morning convened an urgent meeting to address the numerous security and safety challenges faced by Zambian truck drivers operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

The meeting focused on security and safety challenges reported by transporters and drivers, including physical attacks, assaults, and damage to vehicles. 

Mr Tayali explained that the government has previously engaged with its counterparts in the DRC to address these issues but to no avail.

He has since announced that it has been resolved following the meeting that it is only prudent to report to President Hakainde Hichilema as well as make recommendations for the matter to be escalated to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) level.

Mr Tayali, who was speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka, emphasised the importance of collaboration among the line Ministries, stating that the challenges faced by Zambian truck drivers in the DRC require a holistic approach.

“I hope that a collective effort will yield positive outcomes and provide lasting solutions to the challenges faced by the Zambian truck drivers in the DRC,” he said.